Lot 332: Ford Model A Tourer

Few automakers resisted change as energetically as Henry Ford. Ole' Henry reckoned that the Model T that had served so well when introduced in 1908 still had life in it as the 1920s beckoned. The T had many merits. It was cheap, reliable and could be fixed by virtually any farmer, blacksmith or self-taught mechanic. It also put millions of Americans on four wheels and helped spread automobility to Canada, Great Britain, Australia and most other corners of the earth. When Ford finally decided that the sturdy 'Tin Lizzie' had run its course, the decade was half over. Unlike most other automakers, there was little transition to the new model. Production of the Model T ceased in May 1927 and only a few thousand of the new Model A were produced by year's end. While Ford was busy installing new tooling and preparing its assembly lines, Chevrolet was rapidly displacing Ford as the top seller of new automobiles in America. The new Model A was a radically different car from the one it replaced. Although a flat-head four-cylinder engine remained, displacement climbed from 176cid to 200cid and horsepower doubled from 20 to 40. Meanwhile, the two-speed planetary transmission was replaced by a conventional clutch and three-speed manual unit. As with the Model T, suspension consisted of a pair of live axles with a pair of transverse leaf-springs. Ford's new model was just as sturdy and reliable. It was also considerably more comfortable than its predecessor, although model for model it carried a price approximately $100 higher. Although production was slow to start, by 1928 volumes were climbing. For 1929 sales were in full stride and Ford was again fighting for market supremacy. This 1928 Model A Ford was a one-owner country car for many years and subject to a full professional restored circa 2006, including the engine, gearbox and differential. The car has travelled minimal miles since completion. The body is finished in burgundy with black guards. A number of period dealer accessories such as the kick plates and radiator mesh really enhance the appearance, as do the white-wall tyres. The interior, hood and side curtains are all in very good condition and the Ford was kept on full registration until 2008. The vehicle retains the original 6-volt electrical system and recently had a new battery fitted. Winner of many prizes for originality in recent years, the Model A presents in very good overall condition, both mechanically and cosmetically, and runs very well.