Stepping into the world of custom vehicles, you quickly realize some cars aren’t just machines; they’re testaments to passion and engineering. This 1932 Essex Terraplane drag car is precisely one such marvel, a classic sedan that has been reborn as a twin-turbocharged powerhouse. Its journey from a vintage find to a drag-strip contender is truly captivating, promising a thrilling experience for anyone behind the wheel or simply admiring its unique build.
From Classic Roots to High-Performance Dreams
The Terraplane first burst onto the scene in 1932, a product of the Hudson Motor Car Company under the Essex marque. This particular Model K sedan, however, has transcended its original purpose. Its steel bodywork, once modest, now features boldly widened fenders. It sports a vibrant red repaint, accented by eye-catching multicolor pinstriping, giving it an aggressive yet elegant presence. You’ll notice the grille shell and front bumper, now sleekly powder-coated in black, adding to its formidable stance.
Redefining Exterior Style and Function
Further enhancing its distinctive look, an American flag-motif vinyl wrap proudly adorns the roof, a patriotic touch. The running boards, now coated with a durable black bedliner, are built for purpose. Other carefully chosen details include a classic Griffin hood ornament, a functional tilt-out windshield, and tinted glass for an air of mystery. For its competitive nature, a parachute is integrated into the design, ready for high-speed runs. Furthermore, the exhaust outlets, passing cleanly through the front fenders, hint at the beast within.
The Heart of the Beast: Unrivaled Power
Underneath its classic exterior lies a true performance monster. The 434ci V8 engine is a meticulously crafted powerhouse, built around a Dart “The Reaper” LS-based block. This engine is designed for extreme durability and performance, featuring a Callies Compstar crankshaft and forged H-beam connecting rods. Wiseco forged pistons work in harmony with a Texas Speed & Performance roller camshaft and PRC cylinder heads, ensuring maximum efficiency and power delivery. A Texas Speed and Performance short-runner intake manifold completes this formidable setup.
Twin Turbos and Fuel Flexibilty
The sheer power of this 1932 Essex Terraplane drag car comes courtesy of mirrored VS Racing 76mm turbochargers. These turbos force immense amounts of charge air through a Tick Performance air-to-water intercooler, which utilizes an ice box for optimal cooling. The Haltech electronic fuel injection system offers incredible versatility; it can be precisely calibrated to run on either readily available pump gas or high-octane E-85, giving the driver options. The numbers truly speak for themselves: dyno test results report staggering maximum output measurements of 1,518 horsepower and 1,197 lb-ft of torque. If you’re wondering about its quarter-mile capabilities, a time slip confirms an blistering 8.943 seconds at 162.53 mph.
Precision Engineering: Chassis and Suspension
A car this powerful needs an equally robust and precise chassis, and this custom Essex Terraplane delivers. Billet Specialties 15” alloy wheels are fitted with Mickey Thompson 27×6.00” tires at the front, while the rear features 15×12″ dual-beadlock wheels wrapped in 275/60 units. The ride itself is supported by a Johnny Law Mustang II-style front suspension assembly, thoughtfully modified with spherical joints for enhanced handling. The rack-and-pinion steering, though unassisted, provides direct feedback. At the rear, a QA1 four-link setup and sway bar ensure stability, complemented by QA1 double-adjustable coilovers all around for fine-tuned ride control. Stopping power is equally impressive, with Wilwood four-piston calipers at all four corners.
A Safe and Functional Cockpit
Stepping inside, you immediately notice the comprehensive NHRA 8.50 roll cage, providing essential occupant protection with removable door bars. The cabin features comfortable black bucket seats, accented with crisp white stitching, providing a stark contrast. JEGS harnesses, valid through June 2027, securely hold the occupants in place. The door panels are crafted from bead-rolled aluminum, adding a touch of industrial elegance. The dashboard fascia, expertly pinstriped, shows attention to detail.
The three-spoke steering wheel, equipped with convenient push-button controls, is mounted to a tilt column. Ahead of the driver sits a Haltech configurable display, offering all vital information at a glance. The digital odometer shows a mere 308 miles, a testament to its fresh build and limited use since its latest modifications.
Drivetrain: Harnessing the Power
Power is efficiently sent to the rear wheels through a Bubba Ginn Racing Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission. This robust unit features an SFI-certified case and a removable bell housing, designed for high-performance applications. It includes a transbrake and a Circle D torque converter, optimizing power transfer. A Gear Vendors ProMod overdrive unit extends its versatility, while a Motion Raceworks CO2-assisted shifter provides precise gear changes. The Quick Performance 9” rear end, housing a Strange Engineering 3.40:1 third member, a 1350 yoke, and 40-spline drive axles, ensures reliable power delivery to the pavement.
This extraordinary 1932 Essex Terraplane Model K sedan is a true testament to automotive rebirth. It blends classic styling with cutting-edge drag racing technology, resulting in a vehicle that is both a visual masterpiece and a performance juggernaut. It is a striking example of what happens when vision and engineering expertise converge.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about a specific vehicle. Performance figures and specifications are based on available data and may vary depending on conditions.
Source: bringatrailer.com