By Jim Brennan
Cruising around on Ebay, scouting “other makes”, this listing popped up. It’s for a 1956 right hand drive Ford, that was imported from Australia to Canada in 1988. So, why did I compare it with a wildly customized Japanese Truck? Make the jump to find out. According to Wikipedia (which is really the last word on anything, right?)…
The Dekotora or Decotora (デコトラ, dekotora?), an abbreviation for “Decoration Truck”, is a kind of loudly decorated truck most commonly found in Japan and the Philippines. Dekotora commonly have neon or ultraviolet lights, extravagant paints, and shiny stainless or golden exterior parts. These decorations can be found on both the cab and the trailer, and not only on the exterior but also in the interior.
Dekotora may be created by workers out of their work trucks for fun, or they may be designed by hobbyists for special events.
I have to admit that a 1956 Ford is nothing like a Japanese Dekotora, except for this one. It’s both loud and garish, as well as right hand drive. There isn’t any surface on this car that hasn’t been decorated. According to the listing:
This IS A ONCE IN A LIFETIME chance to own this one and only CUSTOM. This Car has hand made items second to none attached with fit and finish to perfection. Purchased new 1956 Completed in 1980. Stored until 1998 Imported to Canada from Australia in 1998. Has 36,000 Original miles. 292 Y Block 3 Speed Overdrive.Power Brakes. Burgler Alarm, Remote Start, Electronic Ignition, 3 Stromberg 97 Carbs. Runs and drives like NEW.
While I think the decoration detracts from being a blue chip collectible, it might just find the right buyer. So, is an Australian 1956 Ford a Dekotora? Inquiring minds – like mine – want to know what you think. In case you’re still interested, here is the Ebay Listing.