Ford’s Model T is often said to have put America on wheels, but the Model A that succeeded it was also extremely popular. Stylish and low-priced, the Model A sold over 5 million examples during its 4 year run. This 1930 Model A Victoria is a relatively rare example (1 of supposedly 3,600 built that year), and while it has apparently been an Arizona car for the majority of its life, it is currently up for sale for $10,000 here on craigslist outside Denver, CO. Thanks to Barn Finds fan Gunter for the tip!
But by the time the late 1920s were rolling around, Ford realized it was time for a new model to be introduced to replace the Model T. The Model A was a huge step forward technologically – conventional clutch and brake pedals, throttle, and shifter. It came with 4-wheel drum brakes and safety glass for the windshield, as well as an option for a cabin heater.
The Model A was offered in a large variety of body styles: two- and four-door sedans, town sedans, convertible sedans, coupes, cabriolets, roadsters, phaetons, sedan deliveries, pickups, station wagons, and the Victoria coupe. Victorias, named after a type of carriage, were a cross between a four or five-passenger two-door sedan and a coupe with room for four and some luggage space behind the back seat. The design popular at the time among luxury carmakers such as Packard, Lincoln, Cadillac, REO and others.
This Model A has survived well, but 91 years takes a toll. The body is actually in surprisingly good shape, with no major rust or damage apparent in the photos. It seems like all the trim is present, the glass is uncracked, and even the tires and wheels look good, although they may be newer since the green painted spokes don’t match the spare. It would probably be wise to carefully inspect the leather roof to see what rust and rot might be hiding underneath. The seller does say that there is extra frame wood available for additional cost.
The seller says this Model A will need to be restored, but really it probably only needs some attention on the interior, as the majority of the soft surfaces are damaged. The door panels, seats, and headliner are all in various states of falling apart. Also, the dash will need new gauges, but that should be pretty simple. The seller has a new interior upholstery set available for purchase as well.
Unfortunately, no info or photos are provided on the engine or drivetrain, about what is included and whether it runs or not. I’m guessing no work has been done to get it running, or else that would have been mentioned in the listing. Assuming it still has all the original factory parts, it would be a 200 cubic-inch 4-cylinder engine paired with a 3-speed transmission, which put out 40 horsepower and could propel the driver to 65 mph while still getting between 20 and 30 mpg. Not bad for an almost 100-year old car! Even though there are still some unknowns about this Model A, it has potential. Would you restore it, or fix it up just enough to preserve its history while still having it be safe to drive again?
Radiator shell appears to be 1931
That plus there wasn’t a Victoria until 1931 makes this a ’31.The ad claims a clear title. Could it be a ’31 assembled in late 1930 and then titled as a ’31?
It may be a 31 shell, I can never remember which is which, but they are absolutely totally interchangeable. I think Model A’s have definitively gone down in price and popularity. However ,his being a Victory makes me think,this is a reasonable buy.
Don’t have much time for a seller that asks a fairly high price fora car and then fails to say anything about its running gear and lists stuff the car needs that he has for extra money.
The venerable Vicky! This is one of my favorite bodystyles from the 30s. I would be at somewhat of a loss if I was given a choice between a Cabriolet/Roadster or a Victoria. I guess I’d just have to take both…