Happy New Year to everyone. You may remember that our last featured Classic was a Ford Model A, well, PCVC`s first Classic of the Month for 2026 is the car which succeeded it in the UK, being a Ford Model Y.
Ford designed the Model Y as a “modern” replacement for the Model A and it was the first car they built specifically for the British and European markets. The “Y” was manufactured from 1932 until 1937 in their new factory at Dagenham (as well as locations in France, and Germany), as a small affordable “family” car, which was in direct competition with the Austin 7 and Morris 8. It was the first car with 4 seats to sell for only £100, (although this was the basic version), and proved to be highly popular, becoming the first Ford car to carry the “Popular” name.
They were produced in both two and four door configurations with a choice of saloon, and touring (convertible) body styles. The majority of the 175,000 cars produced were 4 door saloons and in true Ford style were usually painted black, although other colours were available to special order. All were powered by a 4 cylinder inline side valve engine of 933cc capacity, driving through a manual, 3 speed gearbox, and producing 22bhp. Whilst the top speed was advertised as 57 mph (but only for the brave), it`s acceleration could only be described as sluggish, the steering was extremely vague, and the brakes almost non-existing.
However, as can be seen from the photographs, our Classic of the Month for January 2026, which is owned by PCVC member Andrew Koizi, is no ordinary Ford Model Y.
The featured car started life in 1935 as a two door tourer but has been subjected not only to a “nut and bolt” restoration of museum quality but has also been modified as a full blown American Hot-Rod.
These works have included the following:-
The 933cc engine has been replaced by a 7 litre Ford V8, which would normally power an AC Cobra sports car.
The three speed manual gearbox has been changed for a 5 speed automatic box with an upgraded transmission to match.
The braking is now a hydraulic system with discs all round, instead of the ineffective original rod operated drum brakes.
The body has been lowered and converted to a two seat convertible coupe, sitting on a modified and strengthened chassis.
The original black colour scheme has been replaced with immaculate paintwork in Candy Apple Red, a Cream coloured hood and matching leather interior trim.
This ultra rare car is probably unique and now has a colossal 400hp, is capable of over 130mph, and has a blistering acceleration of 0/60 in less than 6 seconds!
If you would like to see Andrew`s fantastic Hot Rod or other interesting Classic Vehicles you should come to one of our many meetings.
Full details of which can be found on the PCVC Facebook page, or, our webpage www.paphosclassicvehicleclub.com or, telephone, 97760997.