The Deucari Revelation: How a Ferrari V12 Ignited a '32 Ford into Autodom's Hall of Fame
Imagine a world where the roar of a Ferrari V12 doesn't echo from the sleek body of an Italian supercar, but rather from a vehicle born in the heart of America's automotive golden age – a '32 Ford. This isn't the plot of a gearhead's fantasy novel; it's the real story of the Deucari, a street rod that defies convention and captures the spirit of two iconic automotive cultures.
The year was 1979, and the automotive world was about to witness the birth of a legend. The Deucari, with its vibrant red facade, could easily be mistaken for another beautifully restored hot rod. Yet, nestled within its chassis lies a heart transplanted from one of Italy's finest – a Ferrari Daytona.
Hot rodding, a tradition that burgeoned in the post-WWII era, has long embraced the art of customizing vintage cars. Despite the evolving landscape of car customization, the allure of pre-1935 Fords, notably the 1932 model nicknamed 'Deuce,' has endured. Over the years, numerous Deuces have achieved icon status, but it's the Deucari that truly stands apart.
The Dream of a Lifetime, With an Italian Twist
Growing up with a hot rod aficionado for a parent can shape dreams in unique ways. For Brian Burnett, son of HOT ROD Magazine's Rex Burnett, the dream was to own a hiboy Deuce. This dream would follow him into adulthood, where he owned a Ferrari dealership, uniting his childhood passion with his adult career. However, the conventional didn't satisfy; he wanted his Deuce powered by none other than a Ferrari V12.
Enter Dick "Magoo" Megugorac, a revered name in hot rod building, tasked with making Burnett's audacious dream a reality. The endeavor was monumental, requiring a custom build that honored the aesthetic of the traditional hot rod while accommodating the heart of an Italian stallion.
An Unorthodox Engine Saga
The tale of how the Deucari came to possess its Ferrari engine is as riveting as the car itself. Sourcing a Ferrari V12 through official channels proved impossible for Burnett, forcing him to turn to the underground network of collectors. The engine's journey from a converted Jeep Wagoneer – the Jerrari – to becoming the powerhouse of the Deucari is a testament to Burnett's dedication and the lengths to which car enthusiasts will go to realize their visions.
A Chassis Worthy of Its Heart
The integration of the Ferrari V12 into a '32 Ford was no small feat. It demanded a complete overhaul of the Deuce's chassis, a challenge eagerly met by Magoo and his team. The custom frame, augmented with traditional hot rod and advanced sports car elements, ensured that the Deucari was not only a showstopper but a high-performance machine capable of rivaling the sports cars of its time.
A Legacy Cemented
The Deucari's impact on the automotive world was immediate and profound. It challenged conventions, bridged cultures, and, in its essence, celebrated the boundless creativity of car enthusiasts. Winning America's Most Beautiful Roadster at the 1979 Grand National Roadster Show only crystallized its place in automotive history.
Today, decades after its creation, the Deucari stands as a monumental achievement in custom car building. While it may have changed hands, the spirit and vision that brought it to life remain untouched, a beacon of inspiration for future generations of car enthusiasts. From a childhood dream to an icon of the automotive world, the Deucari is a powerful reminder of where passion and innovation can lead.