10 Cool Facts About Milner's '32 Ford - American Graffiti

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The 1932 Ford driven by John Milner in the 1973 movie American Graffiti is an iconic symbol of the hot rod culture of the 1960s. This classic car is a shining example of the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating custom hot rods during this era. With its sleek lines, powerful engine, and distinctive grille, the 1932 Ford is a true work of automotive art. With its timeless design and peppy performance, the 1932 Ford in American Graffiti is a must-see for any car enthusiast.

-Enjoy

[renmyaru]

my grandpa was in the movie and provided some of the cars. he was driving in the scene where the guy was leaning out the window to tell milner that someone was looking to race him. Paul Haun.

[lonnyjaw]

Glad to hear Milner's ride was eventually rescued!

[darinbell]

"Rock and roll has been going downhill ever since Buddy Holley died" best line in the movie.

[HarlieJ]

When the '55 Chevy was for sale in Car Craft magazine, I was in Wichita visiting family. I called Steve Fitch who graciously said come on over and check it out. Right there in front of me, in a single car garage, was a piece of American history. It was basically a race care - 454, tilt front end, roll cage, plexi for the window. You could see the bolt holes for the camera mounts on the side. Steve said he was selling the '55 to finance the '32's restoration. I asked to see the '32 and it was somewhere in Wichita in a warehouse. Steve was extremely gracious in letting us see the '55.

[liverpoolscottish]

Milner is STILL the fastest- he just IS! Superb film, 'American Graffiti, ' very cool, great soundtrack.

[kensmith]

It’s a real shame that such an iconic piece of film history was left to rot on some Hollywood back lot!
Thank God someone restored it!

[calvincosby]

I know that I'm not the only one, but I've watched American Grafitti at least a dozen times. And I'd watch it again. 😁

[glenw-xmzf]

Geesh is that move really 50 years old? That makes me um... glad I am still here

[msh]

I had a long conversation with Paul "Milner" Le Mat a few years ago. He told me several great behind the scenes stories from the filming of AG.
Paul is NOT. a gearhead and doesn't hold AG in any special regard, other than it being one of his first jobs. He told me what he was paid to do the movie and it was a shockingly low number. He and none of the other cast members receive royalties. He stopped doing national public appearances because of some health issues but, he still does a few close to his home. Paul seems like a good guy who got his moment of fame. Which is more than most of us will get. Fascinating guy and very open about his life and Hollywood.

[DinoHarley]

Where were you in 62? Brings back the memories of my time with my 32 Duce full fender. Had a 57, Olds J2 two 4s and the Olds B&M Hydro. TJ tuck an roll. Big meats in the back 8:20 15s and pie cutters in front. 57 Ford 9 inch with 4:11s Lincoln brakes and narrowed. Scary Fast. Eat most Chevy 409s and 426s Dodges/Plymouths. It got me a few tickets. Loved that car. My dad sold it while I was in Vietnam. Not happy when I got home…

[DeaconDillon]

Nobody can outrun John Milner !. I absolutely love this car that Milner drove in the movie.

[rotaxtwin]

A 0.060" overbore and the camshaft were a nice touch to refreshing the 327 no doubt. Crazy that they couldn't unload the car for $1500 at the time, but there you go.

[LilianaMeyers-qj]

The coolest thing about this awesome car is Paul La Mat.. I absolutely love this car that Milner drove in the movie.

[johnbehneman]

THANK YOU SO MUCH. THE MILNER COUP IS ALWAYS HOT!!! A TRUE CLASSIC!!! A TIMELESS CLASSIC!!!

[jrfoleyjr]

That is my dream ride and has been since I first saw it in the movie years ago. I am from that era being just a few years younger (I'm 74 now) than people portrayed in the movie. The music and everything resonates through my soul and being. If I had a replica of it now, mine would have a 350 but otherwise look like Milner's car. 🤗

[andrebartels]

Good to hear that this iconic jewel is in good shape now. ❤

[TheOzarkExplorer]

I got to ride in this car just after the movie was released. It was sent to Barris Kustom in No. Hollywood, my father was the shop manager there, to get detailed for a McD's commercial that promoted the movie. We drove the car home and kept it there for about a week, and we cut a deal to buy the car after the movie promotions were all done. No one at the Studios figured the movie would be such a big hit, but it didn't take long find out it was and the studio promoters of the movie decided keep using it for promotions. I recall asking and was told the chopped top was done by the movie studio craftsmen, and those guy did some pretty cool work, but this car was a "quicky" and far from finished when we got it.

The interior was pretty much old and unfinished. The chopped top had no headliner inside and the door panels were rough (or missing) too. I'm sure the car has had lots of additional work by now and it's probably in much better shape than when it was used in the movie. And Chopped Top 32 Ford Coupes are still among my favorite hot rods, even when they're beaters.

[larrybaker]

how could anyone let this baby fall into disrepair? Milners 5 window deuce is my dream car (but with larger back tires)...color is perfect for a '32. My best friend was almost a double for John M. Milner was supercool in this movie, and would have fit perfect in the time setting it was shot love this car, thanks for restoring and sharing.

[robertquackenbush]

I absolutely love this car that Milner drove in the movie

[sonofthes]

Fantastic info on one of the greatest movies ever made.