I've always been a musclecar guy, but I have always wanted an old hotrod.

I'll admit right up front that my knowledge on these cars is somewhat limited. I'm not totally ignorant on them, but my specifics on each variant is vague. With that, here's where I'm at.

I've always wanted a '32 Ford Coupe. Yes, American Graffiti when i was a kid, and all that. Anyway, I have quickly determined that they have now been priced out of my reach. The reason for that is I want a steel one, not a glass replica.

Long story short, an old friend of mine that I grew up with happened to casually mention to me the other day that he has a 1931 Ford coupe hot rod, Henry Ford steel body and all. He says it's a older 1980's job, but in decent condition. Nothing exciting in it, just the generic small block Chevy with Turbo 350 trans. Corvette rear suspension. Disc brakes in front. I know nothing about frame, and details. The interior is in good shape, but dated and ugly (to me at least). Red leather in diamond pattern. Car is black, paint seems ok. Windows are terrible, tinted sort of a purple with roses etched into them, I will need to replace all of them.

What questions do I need to ask him? Is the 'vette rear suspension a good or bad thing in these cars? What's a good front suspension ssetup, and what's a bad one? What do I need to look for (good) or look out for (bad)?

I know that's short on details, can anyone take a stab on what it may be worth? Also, what are the big differences other than appearance between a '31 and '32 coupe?

Any and all info is greatly appreciated. I have a lot to learn.