Chassis No. 18-139175

Legend says that when Chevrolet challenged Ford's dominance for the low-priced market with a six-cylinder engine at the pride of the Model A's four, Henry Ford heatedly responded, "If they want cylinders, then by God, we'll give them cylinders." Development soon began on the Ford V-8, the first popular-priced eight-cylinder engine, which was launched for 1932 as the Model A's proud successor.

Jim Taylor's V-8 Cabriolet, a convertible coupe, hails from the first season of production and is in the most desirable DeLuxe trim. Only 5,499 Cabriolets were produced in 1932, making this one of the rarest styles, of which very few have survived. This one was formerly part of the famed Harrah's Automobile Collection in Nevada, which at its height included at least one example of every year Ford produced between 1903 and 1978. Information in the history file indicates that Harrah's used the car for one of their well-known picture postcards as well as for a United Airlines magazine photography shoot. Harrah's sold the Cabriolet to Charles Peet of Fort Lauderdale, also the former owner of the Taylor 1931 Cadillac, at their 1984 dispersal auction. Later it passed to collector Bob Phelps and then into Mr. Taylor's ownership.

Recipient of a restoration to all-original condition some years ago, the car is finished in black with red pinstriping and wire wheels, brown leather upholstery in both the main seat and rumble seat, and tan canvas top. Equipment includes a single rear-mounted spare, which provides a handsome sporting air. At the time of cataloging, the car had recorded 712 miles, likely since completion of the restoration. It is accompanied by its partial Harrah's 'car diary' and information placard, as well as an instruction book.

One of the most famous collections ever assembled was that built by Bill Harrah and his team, and this was one of the centerpieces of their famed 'Ford Row.' It is offered today by yet another proud enthusiast owner who has kept it to the same high standards.