Ford’s Model A is part of the foundation of America’s automobile ecosystem. Sure, it wasn’t the first car ever made, and the Model T sold three times as many copies, and Henry Ford wasn’t so much an inventor as he was an innovator. But the Model A brought technological innovations such as a heater and safety glass to the consumer in an affordable package. It forced manufacturing processes into an adaptive state – called flexible mass production – allowing rapid model changes to suit the public mood. It also sent the hot rod movement – provided a solid boost by the Model T – into orbit. Aftermarket performance equipment makers like Robert Roof and Harry Miller flourished. That trend continued to modern times, with coachbuilders like Boyd Coddington and Dick Flint tackling the rod conversion with gusto. Whether you enjoy the Model A as Henry made it, or want an opportunity to redesign this standard-bearer, this next car might be for you. Here on eBay is a beautiful 1930 Ford Model A Tudor Sedan bid to $5,200, no reserve, ready for a new owner to collect it from North Liberty, Iowa.
The seller purchased this car from a neighbor who used it often. He drove it home, parked it, and hasn’t done anything with it since. We’re not told how long ago that was. This is the famous 201 cid four-cylinder engine, installed in every one of the thirty-odd body styles offered as well as tractors, trucks, and other machinery. Its 40 hp was twice that of the Model T’s 177 cid engine. This engine is fitted with a vintage Auto-Lite exhaust manifold heater for the comfort of the cabin’s inhabitants. (If you wanted one, it would cost around $200). The gearshift is a three-speed crash box.
This is it for an interior photo, but we are told that the upholstery is tan. The gauge set includes an ignition switch (left), fuel gauge (top), lamp (center), amps (right), and oval speedometer/odometer (bottom). In later 1930 cars through to the end of production, the speedometer was round. Note the trip set just to the right of the speedo.
The body appears quite straight, though the hood doesn’t match the rest of the car – a replacement? The bumpers are in great condition though one rear set sits askew. The cowl lights were provided on the deluxe – the standard had to do without. The horn looks new-ish. This rear view shows off this example’s plumb lines and undamaged sheet metal. The textured vinyl top that should be set into the roof is missing. While restoration costs might put a buyer underwater, Model As make perfect DIY projects for novice collectors thanks to plenty of club support and scads of parts vendors. And if a hot rod is this one’s destiny, that’s a well-trod path too. Which track is best for this one?
Nice write up as as you always do. One little nitpick, model A has mechanical brakes.
You’re right Harvey! The text has been updated to say “a heater and safety glass”. Check out what’s sitting on the exhaust manifold!
Thanks, dang I keep forgetting that; my own Model A has been converted to hydraulics, I keep thinking that is “normal”.
And the heater was an aftermarket accessory, not a factory item.
Great bones for a full fendered street rod. 289/auto, nice interior and paint. Get it as far away from the rat rod look as you can get. Make an awesome family hauler.
I would leave that as it is and just toodle around in it.
I’m with you Derek, leave it alone! my grandpa give me a 29 when I was 12 I putted around on the farm with it. When I turned 16 I bought a 56 Bel-Air 2 Dr ht. I took the front fenders off the old 29 (looked pretty cool)my dad told me to put them back on or he would get rid of it. One day when I got home from school it was gone!
Seems to me this would be a very good choice for someone just getting into the old car game/racket/hobby. Information and parts are readily available, and these are only slightly more complicated than a Briggs & Stratton-powered lawn mower to work on.
Such a person could hone their skills on getting it in running order, and perhaps even have a go at paint and interior work. Imagine how they’d feel seeing the result!
On top of that, they are nice to drive around when in decent nick. Certainly less finicky than a Model T.
I’d definitely keep it stock. There aren’t all that many around.
Couldn’t agree more RayT. I recently bought a mid 50’s Ford tractor, and the simplicity is so rewarding. Started sanding in preparation for my amateur paint job. Won’t be a show stopper, but I’m having a great time with it. Considering a Model A as a future project.
Got any photos? What motor is in that?
600 series or 800 series Ford tractor? I had an 861. One of the best tractors that size ever made. Even by today’s standards, just as handy as when it was new.
Well said Ray. If there is a local Model A club you will get lots of support, both advice and hands on. The National Chapter (MAFCA) is also a great source of support. On Facebook folks like Paul Shinn have great videos with advice as well as how to videos. For example, if you adjust mechanical brakes correctly they work as well as juice brakes and are a lot less fussy to maintain.
Keep it original, just clean it up and polish it…. and wait for the Fourth of July parades.
I bought my Model A for $25.00. I drove it for a year and sold it to a friend for $25.00. He rolled it onto its right side at a Cleveland Heights intersection. It was on its side still running when a bunch of people pitched in to right it. Off he drove. While the car was lying on its side, someone looked and said to my friend, “anybody hurt?” His response was, “no, are you disappointed.” He was a bit of a wise ass.
Kinda wishin’ there was an interior picture, not that it makes much difference. I’d be willing to come up with the right amount of money, prep my 20 year old F-150 for a trip to Iowa and haul that baby back to Orlando just to show off to the neighbors. That Model A is only 12 years older’n me!
1st day driving my 30 A 2dr on city streets, traffic light changed suddenly, hit the mechanical brakes and ran the red light. Naturally, cop there saw it and gave me a ticket.
My brakes weren’t equalized. Old timers know what I mean.
The rods have to be adjusted so the rear brakes come on first before front brakes kick in.
Tricky adjusting rods so both rears come on at same time and both fronts at same time, otherwise car pulls left or right.
Wow what memories! My 1930 2 door Sedan got me through senior year High School and freshman year College 1962-63; enduring Wisconsin winters without that after-market heater, only the standard manifold heater. Never failed me!