Letting go of a long-held auto – particularly one of character – can be a melancholy undertaking. This 1929 Ford Model A phaeton here on eBay was owned by the seller’s grandfather and apparently enjoyed by the whole family for many years. I can imagine it ferrying a passel of kids to the beach, through town on the Fourth of July, down to the corner for a hot dog. Loss of storage is forcing the sale. Frisky bidding has brought the price to $12,600, but the reserve has not been met. Provided you have plenty of time, this car can be driven home from its location in Huntington Station, New York. The phaeton body style offered drop-top fun and seating for four; the Model A roadster drops its top, but you need a rumble seat to accommodate more than one couple. These two body styles are the most popular among collectors.
Considering the leap from the Model T to the Model A, it’s hard to believe that there was also a significant evolution from 1928 to 1929. The 1928 Model A utilized a five-cam-bearing engine and a double-venturi carb; it had a primitive starter and generator, and a multi-plate clutch. All these items were replaced either for reliability or ease of manufacturing by late 1928. The brake system was also switched out in late 1928, thanks to objections from the state of Pennsylvania regarding the lack of an emergency brake. But the basic motor remained a 201 cu. in. four-cylinder rated at 40 hp – double that of the Model T. Suspension remained barely better than a horse cart with transverse leaf springs front and rear.
In late 1928, the red resin steering wheel gave way to hard black rubber. The dash of an early 1928 will have an “on/off” indication on the ignition switch which by 1929 had disappeared. Research shows that the interior color had shifted to blue/gray by 1929 but the reality is, most of these cars have been changed substantially from new. This interior is quite spiffy, with no apparent critical needs. The seller does note that a “top support beam” needs repair, but I can’t find the problem in the photos.
By 1926, Henry’s insistence on black paint had given way to a more colorful palette. By 1928, phaeton cars could be found in ten or more color schemes, but in 1929, that shrank to five. Fenders were painted black and so were wheels, but as noted, creative owners have long ago shifted off factory configuration. In terms of value, roadsters do tend to command higher prices, but the current bid on this one is a bit under the market. A reserve closer to $15k or even more would not surprise me.
No doubt, years of weekend fun when visiting with grandpa while growing up and now he’s gone with no one to care for it.
We can only hope the new owner cares as much as he did because this is a jewel, a gem in the personal history clock.
GLWTS
Keep it in the family.
A car to teach a millennial how to shift
I agree! For gods sake keep it in the family. I am also conflicted when I am about to purchase such a thing. You know deep in your heart, they will regret it. And then its gone. And all that history is just one more, “My Granpa had one just like that” boring stories. The 20K your family makes is NOTHING compared to the memory. Put it in a barn on Jack stands and leave it alone. Someone in the family will treasure it in the future. Then it’s priceless.
Yes, keep it in the family. If there is a nearby MAFCA chapter (Model A Ford Club of America) they can be a great help in keeping lovely lady going and helping the family enjoy the treasure.
I love this car (back when Fords were decent…lol). Wish I had the money and the space, I’d love to drive this one around in the village where I live.
to Mike G….nothing wrong with Ranger’s comment, but your comment is totally uncalled for…. grow up
I agree that keeping a long term family owned classic in the family is always desirable. However it’s obviously not always possible. It’s my experience that more often than not no family member wants grandpa’s old car and if they do they have no place to keep and maintain it. Selling then becomes the best option.
Good morning everyone. I agree with keep it in the family. $12 – 15k is not enough to make a big difference in most households budget. Wish that one of my sons ( no daughters ) had show an interest in my ’27 Dodge Brothers. Would love to see it stay in the family. Got it when I was 15 and I will be 85 in 2 months. I did learn how to drive in it. KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY.
Bill
Excellent Bill ! I kept my 1929 Model A Murray bodied Town Sedan for over 60 years. Got a.bit too old to drive it (with original 60k
Miles). Very difficult to part with it !
Excellent Bill ! I kept my 1929 Model A Murray bodied Town Sedan for over 60 years. Got a.bit too old to drive it (with original 60k
Miles). Very difficult to part with it !
BTW, I was the National Technical Advisor for BMW NA for many years.
Good evening Mike,
With your BMW affiliation I know you have some tales to tell. I wish I could be there when you are telling them.
Have a great day.
Bill
I’d love to regale you with some of my BMW adventures. Tks for the reply
I would keep it too! Inexpensive to own and fun to drive. Great parade car.
Sold……$15,300..congrats to the new owner…enjoy it!!!
Almost on the button vs my guess of $15k, hope she has a wonderful new home!
Every small town mayor in America should want this beautiful old Ford. I don’t care what skin tone or affiliation. Proper appreciation for American greatness can be sound policy by any local leader who wants accessibility. Citizens to say hello and let them know what civic minded ideas they may wish to share. What better way to welcome such?
I’d love to regale you with some of my BMW adventures. Tks for the reply
Mike