Function, Form & Full Fenders

When it comes to building your hot rod, the possibilities are endless. Sure, there are traditional guidelines that we follow, but beyond those the choices are yours and yours alone. Although hot rodding shines brightest at the intersection of form and function, there are cars that just simply stand out. Case in point, we have today’s subject.

Earlier this week, I was sifting through files when I came across a pair of shots from Bob Rothenberg’s expansive photo collection. Both images showcase what has to be one of the toughest Model A roadsters ever built. The best part? It’s all fresh. It wasn’t a famous feature car, an ISCA show winner or a NHRA record holder. Instead, it was a homegrown hot rod with a whole lot of attitude.

Back when we told Bob’s story in Rodder’s Journal #84, we included both images in the article. Here was my caption:

“Bob Meyer is responsible for this sanitary ’31 Model A, which is powered by the dual-quad 283 crate motor from Rothenberg’s three-window. These photos were taken at a gas stop in South St. Louis on the way to the drags in Alton, Illinois. (Below) Bob Meyer is on the left and Bob Rothenberg is on the right. They’re searching for quickchange gears in the well-stocked trunk. Rothenberg recalls that Bob drove this car everywhere with the slicks on the rear. Quarter-mile times were in the 13-second range.”

Note the polished six-lug slot mags

In short, this car was pretty serious. So, what makes it unforgettable? The stance. The chop. The quickchange. The black lacquer and, of course, the white top. Even though I’m deep into a pre-war Model A highboy build, I will admit that there’s something special about this full-fendered A. It’s a real-deal ’60s hot rod, and I figured it’s worth a second look.

—Joey Ukrop

 Photos by Bob Rothenberg