Henry Ford’s indomitable Model T changed the world upon its introduction in 1908.

It was inexpensive, indestructible and it put America on wheels.

The Ford V-8 of 1932 was almost as revolutionary.

A working man on a four-cylinder budget was suddenly able to afford a smooth and powerful V-8.

Before Henry had his flat-head, the V-8 was the realm of the luxury car.

Cadillac, Cunningham and Lincoln all had their V-8s for years.

They also cost thousands and were beyond the dreams of most men.

The 1932 Ford V-8 ranged from $460 to $650 while, model for model, the Model B four-cylinder range cost only $50 less model for model.

The six-cylinder Chevrolet BA only undercut the Ford by $15.

From the beginning, America loved Ford’s V-8—especially once cooling issues were resolved.

Even the country’s outlaws preferred Fords because they were fast and common enough that they were easy to steal.

And young men who liked to go fast soon found that Ford V-8s could be hopped up easily.

Throug...