While we were admiring the entries for the America’s Most Beautiful Roadster competition at this year’s Grand National Roadster show, a deep blue ’32 Ford called the Goodwin Speedster caught our eye . The owners, Ronnie and Deborah Goodwin just happened to be by their car so we took the opportunity to ask them about the story behind their 2014 AMBR contender.

This is Ronnie’s story:

As a kid growing up in rural Tennessee, I could only read about the latest rods and customs from places like southern California. My buddies favored Tri-5 Chevys, ’60s bubble tops or Corvettes. Later, Camaro and Mustang Pony cars were top choices. My favorite has always been the 1932 Ford Roadster; no top, no air or heat. The deuce always seemed like heaven-sent automotive perfection. After my first three quarter rear view of a steel-wheeled black ’32, I was hooked and lusted after that car like no other.

When beginning the Blue ’32, my first goal was to have a period correct post war/pre-’60s car with parts available in 1957. My second idea was to honor the influences of famous cars from that time within this one build.

I hope the stance brings to mind names like Walker Morrison and Ray Brown while the engine bay screams Bill Woodward/Neal East. The white firewall and large steering wheel conjures images of Joe Nitti and Tommy Foster. Lastly, I hope that the metal work and fit call out McGee/Scritchfield.

Thanks to these and my many unnamed inspirations, to my wife Deborah, and to Michael and Rose Marie at Street Rods by Michael. I hope that our car continues the cherished tradition of all the ’32s that came before and that each of you enjoy this car.

We also asked Ronnie a few questions about his design inspiration and the build process:

What was the biggest challenge in building the roadster?

I think the hardest part in building the car was including influences from all my favorite cars without making an awful mess.

What inspired the design and overall feel of the car?

My inspiration came from popular cars built from the late ’40s on. The stance comes from Ray Brown and Walker Morrison and I always liked the engine bay from the gold Bill Woodward/Neal East classic. The firewall and steering wheel copy Joe Nitti and Tommy Foster. I hope the simply elegant metalwork favors the McGee/Scritchfield red car. 

Money and time aside, what else would you like to add to the car? Or are you satisfied with where it is now?

As for changing anything, I wouldn’t. Michael Young at Street Rods by Michael captured my dream and vision perfectly. We began 2 1/2 years ago with a blank canvas and used stacks of old periodicals, diagrams, specs and drawings. When Michael finished, my dream was complete.

What’s the next project for you and Deb?

I don’t know. We’ll show this car most of this year and when that’s done, it’ll be driven like our others. Michael is close to completion on his ’32 3-window with a blown flathead and I’m anxious to see him finish it. But I’m a competitive guy and I sure would like another shot at that AMBR trophy!