"what's the history of this Plymouth model being converted into a street rod?"

Question

Accepted Answer

The 1934 Plymouth PE DeLuxe has a fascinating history as a street rod platform! Here's what makes these cars so popular for conversions:

**Historical Background:**
The 1934 Plymouth PE DeLuxe was a breakthrough model for Plymouth, featuring their first independent front suspension and a larger 201 cubic inch inline-six engine producing 77 horsepower. This was Plymouth's upscale offering, with the DeLuxe models accounting for about two-thirds of Plymouth's total 1934 sales of over 321,000 cars.

**Why They Became Popular Street Rods:**
1. **Solid Foundation:** The PE models had robust construction with their 114-inch wheelbase (longer than comparable Fords), making them excellent candidates for modern chassis swaps and suspension upgrades.

2. **Classic Styling:** The 1934 Plymouth featured beautiful early-1930s design with more rounded bodywork than previous years, making them visually appealing as custom builds.

3. **Rarity Factor:** While Fords from the same era dominate the hot rod scene, Plymouths offer enthusiasts something different and more unique at shows and events.

4. **Affordable Base:** Originally priced at $660 for a four-door sedan, they were value leaders in their day, and surviving examples can often be found at reasonable prices compared to the more coveted '32 Fords.

**Street Rod Conversion Timeline:**
The street rodding of these cars really took off in the late 1990s and early 2000s, as builders sought alternatives to the ubiquitous Ford models. Modern conversions like the one you're looking at typically feature Mustang II front suspension, modern V8 engines (often Mopar 340s like in this listing), updated transmissions, and contemporary amenities while preserving the classic 1930s silhouette.

The 1934 Plymouth PE represents the perfect blend of Depression-era style and modern performance potential, which is why they've become increasingly popular in the street rod community over the past two decades!

Would you like me to help you find more information about this specific build or locate similar street rod projects?

Lot 23P0640: 1934 Plymouth PE DeLuxe 5-Window Coupe Street Rod

Classic cars

Cars for sale

Resources

Lot 23P0640: 1934 Plymouth PE DeLuxe 5-Window Coupe Street Rod

Become a CLASSIC Insider