As you can well imagine, with more than 15 million Ford Model Ts manufactured over a 19-year model life, many Ts have been modified for more speed (or at least the appearance of it). This “speedster” (the origin of the word varies by source, but the earliest reference I found was in a 1911 Cole Automobile advertisement) has a minimal amount of bodywork and has been lowered for better handling. It’s listed for sale here on craigslist in Pemberton, New Jersey, with an asking price of $10,000 or best offer.

Here’s one obvious point of modification; the T front axle has been moved forward in front of the radiator, allowing the body to be dropped approximately six inches. Not only does this give a rakish look to the car, but it’s obvious someone meant to at least look “the business” to go to this extent of a modification. The classic racing numbers (even though we have no idea if this car ever competed in a race) just add to the overall image. The rear spring shackles have been reversed and the rear spring temper has been altered to reduce the rear ride height appropriately. Thanks to frequent finder T. J. for sending in this vintage find!

The seller states that the roof of their shed has been damaged and they now have no place to store the car, thus the sale. What a shame! We’re told the car has been mechanically modified (for ease and reliability?) to utilize either a magneto or battery and that an alternator has been added as well. The only stated issue with the car is that the oval gas tank needs sealing (sealant is provided).

I can’t read all of the large dash plaque, but I can see that it commemorates the “Birthplace of Speed Centennial,” which apparently was held for the first time in Ormand Beach, Florida in 2003, but has been held several times since as well. This picture also gives you a good view of the fabric fenders. Trivia time: those three pedals aren’t clutch, brake and gas, they are actually, from left to right, clutch, reverse, and brake! I found a great article here on how the Model T transmission and pedal system work; I’m guessing it takes a while for a new Model T owner to become a smooth driver!

In 1916, the 175-cubic-inch four-cylinder engine was rated at 20 horsepower, but more importantly, a comparatively massive 83 foot-pounds of torque, enabling the lightweight car to deal with what at the time were horrible roads. Rated top speed varies from source to source, but you are probably looking at around 45 miles per hour given the lightweight body on this example. Would you like this Speedster? Have any of you ever driven a Model T? Let us know your experiences in the comments!