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Ford Model A



Ford Model A

Ford Model A

Ford Model A

Ford Model A

"Cabriolet

1930

Engine 4 cyl. Assembled in Dearborn, MI
Bore & Stroke 3.875 x 4.25 in. Number Built 25,868
Displacement 200.5 cu in Transmission 3 spd.
Valves Side Valve Fuel Economy 18 mpg
Horsepower 40 hp@2200 rpm Top Speed 75 mph
Weight 2273 lbs. Cost new $645

Though born in adversity, the Model A was the "new car" that took Ford from the ranks of the simple utilitarian Model T to the zenith of an automobile with serviceable good looks. The elder Henry Ford had been reluctant to bid farewell to the venerable "T", but once he reached accord with son Edsel (who fought to build a new car), Henry plunged headlong into the Model A project. He designed the new chassis and engine himself, while Edsel oversaw the styling. The Model A styline was sophisticated and derived mainly from Lincoln, which was overseen by Edsel.

The Ford factory was idle for 6 months pending a change-over to the Model A. The Model A was a 4-cylinder, 3-speed machine with features that Henry had never envisioned in 1908 when he introduced the Model T. The new engine displaced over 200 cubic inches and reached 40 horsepower, making it nearly twice as powerful as the T. Four wheel mechanical brakes replaced the two brake system, and the new car had over 6800 parts, far more than the Model T, which had fewer than 5000. Despite the great depression, and the business losses stemming from the down time at the factory, 4.5 million Model A's were sold between 1927-31, with Ford outselling Chevrolet two-to-one in the peak year 1930.

Donated by Dwight Sanford