A parking lot is a parking lot is a parking lot—unless it’s the Summit Racing parking lot. On any given day or time, the lot outside a Summit Racing store can turn into an impromptu mini car show, depending on who’s stopped by the store. Each Wednesday, we’ll share our parking lot find of the week—another benefit of being Powered by Summit Racing Equipment.
That thing got a HEMI in it?
Yep—but it’s not what you’re thinking. This 1931 Ford Model A is packing an old DeSoto hemispherical engine, which came in DeSoto’s Firedome model from 1952-59. The DeSoto HEMI V8 was a cousin to the more popular HEMI made by Chrysler, which produced DeSoto-brand vehicles. It was available in a variety of sizes starting with a 276-cubic-inch version—all better than the four-cylinder engine that came standard on original Model As.
The DeSoto powerplant is just one of the cool things about this 1931 Model A, which we spotted a while back outside of Summit Racing Equipment. Check out the photo gallery above to take a closer look and let us know what you think.
Impressive!!! A 1931 Model A with another American icon in the DeSoto HEMI no less. I know that this is an ongoing project but I just love the way a Vice Grip is used for the window/door crank on the driver’s door. Shows imagination until the proper handle is located. I recall my grandmother having a SeSoto in the late 50’s with a HEMI. Then in the 60’s she had a Dodge Polara that was a Highway Patrol Car & had the 413 ci State Patrol Interceptor Engine in it. All before I got my 1st HEMI in a Dodge Challenger. Brought back memories as you can tell.
My Cousin had a 32′ Plymouth with a Desoto Hemi, he had the car in High School, than found it years later as a basket case, that when he put the Hemi in it. The Hemi came out of a neighbor’s car. Once I asked him to give me a ride around the block, he said get behind the wheel pussy. I will never forget that ride, he told me to get on it! First & only time I pulled a Wheelie!! Something you never forget!! : )
Neat looking little coupe.
way to go
Love seeing those heads hanging out in the breeze.