While it isn’t perfect, this 1929 Ford Model A Pickup presents well enough that its next owner could drive it essentially untouched to enjoy the classic motoring experience. The seller recently unearthed it in a private collection, and it exhibits the hallmarks of a vehicle that has undergone an amateur restoration. Although a refresh would return it to its former glory, it has no immediate needs. If you find yourself tempted by this classic, it is located in Lutz, Florida, and listed for sale here on eBay. Frantic bidding has seen the price rocket to $10,100 in a No Reserve auction.

The seller believes that a previous owner may have treated this Pickup to a restoration. There’s plenty of visible overspray to suggest that an amateur performed the work. The Green paint that it wears is not from the 1929 color palette because although I initially believed that it was Vagabond Green, it appears to be too light for that shade. The paint shines nicely, and I think it would respond positively to some careful attention with polish. The panels and paint have a few imperfections, but a dedicated owner should be able to address these in a home workshop. The previous restoration included installing new bed timber, and while its fit around the edges isn’t the best I’ve seen, this remains in good condition. There is a small crack in one lower windshield corner, but the remaining glass appears to be good. The underside shots reveal floors and a frame that are free from any rust issues. With no other problems visible in the panels, it appears that this is a rust-free classic. The bumpers look good for a vehicle of this age, and the wire wheels look perfect. Overall, this Model A makes a positive first impression.

It seems that this older restoration included a re-trim in Brown vinyl. It isn’t period-correct, but there’s little doubt that it would be hardwearing and practical. There is some visible stretching on the driver’s side of the seat, but there is no other physical damage or problems. The rubber mat on the floor is in as-new condition, while the wheel would respond well to a restoration. With some high-quality products available, the buyer could tackle this task in a home workshop with excellent results. Some loose wiring is hanging down under the dash on the driver’s side, but tying this back into place should not be a challenge. The interior isn’t loaded with comfort appointments, and if this Ford’s final destination is a location with a colder climate, the new owner may want to invest in a heater.

While it isn’t clear whether this Model A is 100% original, it does appear that its drivetrain includes a correct 201ci flathead four-cylinder engine that sends its power to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission. While the power output may seem modest, this four’s ability to produce 128 ft/lbs of torque allows the vehicle to pull strongly from relatively low speeds in a high gear. That minimizes the need for the driver to “row” the shifter and allows the Pickup to haul some impressive loads. The seller says that the Model A runs and drives, and this YouTube video supports that claim. It has been sitting for many years, so it would be wise not to consider it roadworthy. It will undoubtedly require a thorough inspection, and evidence of coolant leaks suggest that the radiator is due for a re-core. However, the simple engineering of these vehicles and their bulletproof nature means that returning it to active service may not be complicated or expensive.

What would be your course of action if you found yourself the winning bidder for this 1929 Model A Pickup? Would you return it to a roadworthy state and enjoy it as it stands, or would the temptation of restoration be too difficult to resist? Its overall presentation is acceptable, and its rust-free status means that it has no immediate needs. If I were to find it in my garage, I would be tempted to drive it untouched during the upcoming warmer months and treat it as a great winter project. Your ideas may be different from mine, and it will be fascinating to read our reader feedback. It will also be interesting to see if you are tempted enough to submit a bid on this classic. If you do, I wish you luck.