Not Like The Others

Tony Bono’s ’34 Ford Sedan Sets The Standard With A Traditional Vibe And Four Doors.

- Chuck Vranas

It can all start with a simple statement, one that’s as straightforward as “I like four-doors.” With that said it sets a determining factor straight out of the gate when talking about hot rods, clearly letting others know what type of body styles you’re into. While most hobbyists delve deep into coupes and roadsters regardless of which marque sets their pulse racing, there are another group of fans who prefer more doors.

When referencing the body styles of the ’20s and’30s, the styling flowed from Tudor sedans into multi-doors pretty flawlessly. When done right a four-door can be downright bitchin. Having grown up around hot rods since the age of 5, Tony Bono of Linthicum, Maryland, has had more than enough time to channel his passion into the cars he likes best. Being consumed by a special attraction to four-door sedans eventually led him to purchase a nicely done ’34 Ford Fordor that had been built in the ’80s. The car came packed with plenty of contemporary style and signature details, including an abundance of billet accessories. While putting down plenty of miles over the years the car performed well until mechanical issues left it sidelined. Having previously met Ray Bartlett and Dean Alexander, co-owners of The East Coast Hot Rod Garage in nearby Denton, at a number of car-related events, he decided to contact them for advice. While the sedan could be repaired it was obvious that it could use a full makeover to erase its past and give it a new, traditional vibe.