Offered in California with a clear title and an incredible backstory, this 1931 Ford Model A Slant Window Four-Door Sedan is more than just a restoration project, it’s a historical time capsule with character and potential. Included in the sale is the unique body of the former taxi along with a fully restored, mechanically sorted 1931 Ford Model A chassis. For any vintage Ford enthusiast, this dual-package offering provides an exciting opportunity to build one restored driver and still have a spare foundation for a second project. See it here on craigslist. Thanks for the tip T.J.!
According to the seller, this Model A has lived its life in Southern California, where it was reportedly used as a taxi during its early years. The car retains some original taxi-related accessories, including a “For Hire” flip sign, a 1931 California Chauffeur’s license badge, a rooftop taxi light, and a vintage Yellow Cab magnetic sign discovered under the front seat. A taxi meter was also present, and the seller fabricated a new mounting bracket to replace the original broken one. These details give the project an authentic, story-rich charm that sets it apart from typical Model A builds.
The vehicle was running when it was first purchased several years ago, and while partial disassembly was started for restoration, many of the removed parts are being reinstalled for sale. Components like the re-cored radiator, gas tank, hood, bumpers, and headlights are present, cleaned, and ready to be reattached. The roof covering was torn off during open transport, but a new roof wood kit is included, along with body blocks and various other parts to continue the project.
Perhaps most notably, the listing includes a second, fully restored 1931 Model A chassis. The engine runs strong and has undergone comprehensive mechanical work: valve service, new manifolds, modern carburetor, upgraded distributor, high-pressure oil pump, and more. The frame was sandblasted and powder coated, and the transmission has been rebuilt. A hydraulic brake system, new clutch, suspension, and modern shocks were also installed. Even the horn and sealed beam headlights were restored, ensuring the chassis is ready for immediate use.
Whether your goal is to build a historically inspired Model A taxi or use the pristine chassis for a different custom project, this sale offers dual value and unlimited vintage potential.
Would you keep the spirit of the original taxi alive or build two cars from this unique pairing?
Good write-up, Elizabeth.
This is really cool. I would love to make this my project if I had a suitable work space.
I’d absolutely make this into 2 cars, I’d keep the taxi and sell the 2nd one to recoup some of the costs.
The taxi could still be used as a taxi, would be perfect for some small, historic town somewhere.
Good luck to the lucky person that gets this!
My sentiments exactly!
Back in the 50’s there were still a quite a lot of these cars still on the road. In my neck of the woods an old gold miner dwelled in a shack not far from my parents 120 acre farm. His name was Sam and he was a character. He wore bib coveralls with a red shirt and drove that old Ford model A, 2 door sedan. It was black and shiny, with brown mohair upholstery.
Often times I’d be walking the 2 miles from the main highway heading home when old Sam would come along and offer me a ride. I still recall the smell of that old car as we rolled along all windows open and old Sam whistling some old tune from times gone by. For me it was a time of growing and setting lifetime memories, that shall pass when my time comes. I suppose no one else will remember old Sam and his model A, but for me it is etched deep in my tiny brain.
God Bless America
I don’t reply often, but I had to for this comment.
What a cool memory of a time past, of a prospector from an even older time gone.
I grew up more recently. But for a long time it has scared me that the memories of the people, concepts, places, and things that mattered most go with us after we are gone.
That is why it is so important to pass along stories like this one, of “Old Sam”. I might start thinking of him whenever I see a 2-door Model A sedan.
I’m curious if anyone knows… were those old taxis painted the traditional yellow and black?
Yes, I was at a Ford club meeting here, just outside of Philadelphia, last evening. One of the cars parked in the room next to our clubhouse was a Model A taxi painted in yellow with black letters. Yellow Cab #1776 is used in the Memorial Day Parade in Bensalem every year. It was restored over a 10-year period by our benefactor just a few years before he passed. Also there are three 57 or 58 Mercurys, a 50 Ford wood wagon a 40’s Lincoln Continental and a restored Model A engine air compressor that runs on two cylinders and compresses air with the other two. I forget the brand.
And also there has been a nice Model A roadster in driver condition. The Delaware Valley Model A Club meets there monthly as well. We are fading away but try to keep going.
That reminds me about my cousin Raymond. He had a device where you would pull out a spark plug and screw in a fitting attached to a hose with a pressure gauge and a nozzle to air tires. I think he said he bought it at an auto parts store.
God Bless America
And also there has been a nice Model A roadster in driver condition. The Delaware Valley Model A Club meets there monthly as well. We are fading away but try to keep going.
What, exactly, is a “slant window” Model A?
Slant windshield Model As were late production models made in 1931. The windshield has a slight backward slant instead of vertical. These were 4 door body styles, Cabriolet, Victoria and perhaps others.