The T-bucket is perhaps the most recognized hot rod of all time. Norm Grabowski didn't know he was spawning a cultural icon when he built the first one sometime in the '50s, but this modern interpretation of the classic minimalist rod proves that the T-bucket has some serious staying power. Somehow, this T-bucket manages to embody all the traditional cues that make them so popular, but has an updated look that brings the vintage T into the 21st century. Perhaps it's the cut-down windshield, or maybe the billet wheels, or the sophisticated two-stage urethane paint that was stolen from a late-model Chevrolet color palette. Whatever it is, this is one fantastic-looking T. It maintains the classic proportions, with the open engine bay, tidy Model T roadster body, and a stubby vestigial pickup bed out back, and it is believed to be an original Bird body from the '60s. And while some T-buckets get a homemade look from primer and unfinished details, this one is highly polished and complete, with a beautiful hand-rubbed finish on the paint that would be at home in a Lexus dealership. Forget those colorful Mexican blankets that so many T-buckets use, this one gets several cows' worth of supple tan leather. Expertly stitched into a traditional pleated bench that wraps around the entire passenger compartment, it's an impressive bit of work that needs to be right, given that it's out there for everyone to see. It's also surprisingly spacious for a T-bucket, with decent legroom and plenty of comfort for longer road trips. A traditional-looking gauge panel holds brand new Classic Instruments, and a billet wheel has been wrapped in matching tan leather for an upscale feel. Yes, it's back to basics, but the execution and detailing are absolutely first rate, and all the auxiliary controls like the turn signals and starter switch have been expertly hidden behind the dash. Nobody went minimalist with the mechanicals, which are impressive throughout. Power is from a 302 Ford, and kudos to the builder for putting a Ford in his Ford. The engine is dressed in matching burgundy paint with a ton of chrome dress-up from Ford Motorsports, including valve covers, air cleaner, and accessories, not to mention those stunning pipes that are a key element of the T-bucket. The frame has also been painted to match, and the front suspension uses traditional wishbones and a rigid axle with vented disc brakes, all of which has been either chromed or painted to match. Out back, there's a Jaguar independent setup with twin coil-overs on each side as well as inboard discs that look extremely trick. A C4 3-speed automatic snaps off quick shifts and delivers power rearward via a custom driveshaft that's barely a foot long. American Racing Hopster billet alloy wheels in the traditional exaggerated big-n-little configuration wear skinny 24x5R15 radials up front and giant 31x18R15 Mickey Thompsons. One last note: this one is also incredibly fast, just as it should be. Call today!
