Fran Bannister’s ’32 Ford Roadster

Fran Bannister’s distinctive 1932 Ford Roadster, characterized by its ’39 Ford truck grill and Ford accessory bumperettes, is considered one of the most well recognized hot rods in New England. The car gained national attention in 1950 when it was featured in the March edition of Hot Rod Magazine. 

A fair amount of craftsmanship went into mating a ’39 grill with a ’32 ford cowl by using a hand fabricated aluminum hood and the result proving Fran’s impeccable attention to detail. But Fran’s roadster wasn’t just about style. Powered by a hopped up 258-cu.in. 1942 Mercury engine with Weiand heads, triple Stromberg carburetors, a Harmon & Collins magneto all directed through a Columbia two-speed rear end, this car was a state-of-the-art performance machine.

With his car completed, Fran had some big plans, namely making a timed speed run at the famed Bonneville Salt Flats. In 1950, Fran set out from his home in Massachusetts, with his infant son and young wife nestled in his roadster, on a 2,500-mile trek across the country. The trio were accompanied by their teenage friend, Fred Cain who followed along in a ’39 Ford, with a spare engine and a tripod in case an engine swap was needed. Fran’s trip was a complete success, his car achieved a top speed of 127-mph, officiated, and documented by the Southern California Timing Association.

Feeling nostalgic nearly 40—years later Fran decided he wanted to make his famed Bonneville trip again. Problem was his roadster was long gone. Jack Hartney, his old hot-rodding friend came to the rescue and graciously allowed Fran to take his old roadster to Bonneville. Hartney’s car with Fran the wheel turned a top speed of 128-MPH, just one mph faster than his run years ago, but still considered a success.

Fran Bannister and his brother Ralph were amongst the earliest New England Hot Rodders, along with their friend Jack Hartney, they worked together to build several notable cars. Their contributions promoting hot rodding and drag racing is well known throughout New England. 

Larry Hook of North Smithfield, RI gets the credit for locating the Bannister roadster and you can see the results of his 25-years-long painstaking restoration. The body had been stored on its side causing extensive damage and taking a team of restoration specialists to restore. Larry searched far and wide for the original parts needed to complete this car and being a true historian and a stickler for details, he successfully returned Fran’s car to its 1950 stature.   

On loan from Larry Hook

Specifications
Engine: 1942 Mercury 258 C.I. V8 
Top Speed: 127 MPH 
Engine Modifications: Weiand heads, Triple Stromberg carburetors, Harmon & Collins Magneto
Body Modifications: 1939 Ford grille, hand fabricated aluminum hood