Bottom Line Up Front
The legendary 1933 Ford Eliminator that ZZ Top made famous is back on the road, and its classic looks, modest performance, and collectible price are turning heads again.
1933 Ford Eliminator Coupe – Design, Performance & Price Explained
Image: 1933 Ford Eliminator Coupe – Design, Performance & Price Explained – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
ZZ Top’s love affair with the Eliminator began in the early ’80s when the band needed a visual icon for album covers and music videos. The car is a genuine 1933 Ford Model A chassis, stripped down to the bare bones and then rebuilt with a sleek, low‑profile body that looks like a hot‑rod straight out of a comic book.
- Black lacquer paint with a glossy finish that catches studio lights.
- Wide whitewall tires and a chopped roof give it a stretched‑out silhouette.
- Classic “ZZ Top” badge on the grille, a nod to the band’s branding.
Even today, the Eliminator’s design feels fresh because it mixes vintage charm with a modern, aggressive stance.
Performance & Mileage
Under the hood sits a small‑block V8 that was swapped in during a 1990 restoration. It’s not built for drag‑strip speed; the goal was to keep the car drivable and reliable for road trips and photo shoots.
| Engine | Mileage | Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0‑L V8 (rebuilt) | ≈12 MPG city / 18 MPG highway | $85,000 – $95,000 |
|
The fuel economy is modest, reflecting its age and V8 heart, but owners say it’s more than enough for weekend cruises and festival gigs.
Price & Rivals
Because the Eliminator is a one‑of‑a‑kind show car, its price sits in the high‑six‑figure range for collectors. Comparable hot‑rod builds from the same era often cost $70‑$100 k, but few can claim the same pop‑culture pedigree.
- Rare provenance: Directly linked to ZZ Top’s “Eliminator” album era.
- Limited production: Only a handful were ever restored to this exact spec.
- Collector appeal: Fans and car enthusiasts alike view it as a moving piece of music history.
If you’re hunting a classic American hot‑rod with a story, the 1933 Ford Eliminator beats most custom builds on the nostalgia factor alone.
FAQ
What is the mileage of the 1933 Ford Eliminator?
It averages about 12 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway, typical for a vintage V8.
Is the ZZ Top Eliminator worth buying for a collector?
Yes, its unique link to a famous rock band and its immaculate restoration make it a strong investment for collectors.
How much does a restored 1933 Ford Eliminator cost?
Current market prices range from $85,000 to $95,000, depending on condition and documentation.
What do you think about this iconic hot‑rod? Leave a comment below!
Source: Read Official News
