Which car is commonly referred to as the 'Deuce' in hot rodding?

The car commonly called the “Deuce” in hot rodding is the 1932 Ford.

“Deuce” refers to the final digit in 1932, while a “Deuce Coupe” specifically means a 1932 Ford coupe. The nickname became especially associated with the V8-powered Model 18, although 1932 Fords were also sold with the four-cylinder Model B engine.

The 1932 Ford became a landmark hot-rod base after World War II because it was relatively affordable, plentiful, mechanically straightforward, and available with Ford’s new flathead V8. Builders removed weight, modified the engine, lowered the suspension, and often removed the fenders. The coupe appeared in both five-window and three-window forms.

A common mix-up is calling every early Ford a Deuce: 1933 and 1934 Fords are popular hot rods too, but the term traditionally identifies the 1932 model. Its cultural fame also grew through The Beach Boys’ 1963 song “Little Deuce Coupe” and its appearance in American Graffiti.