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Ford Model T
"3 Door Touring Car"
1914
| Engine |
4 cyl. |
Assembled in |
Highland Park, MI |
| Bore & Stroke |
3.75 x 4.0 in. |
Number Built |
165,832 |
| Displacement |
176.7 cu in |
Transmission |
2 spd. planetary |
| Valves |
Side Valve |
Fuel Economy |
25 mpg |
| Horsepower |
20hp @ 1600 rpm |
Top speed |
50 mph |
| Weight |
1200 lbs. |
Cost new |
$550 |
The Ford Motor Company began car production in 1903 with the
Model A which was an immediate success selling 1,700 vehicles.
Henry Ford continued to develop and sell Models B through S,
prior to 1908. In 1908, the Ford Company built the first Model
T, and the auto industry had its first runaway star. Over 19
years and 15 million Model Ts later, the Ford Motor Company would
come to be the premier auto builder in the United States. Price
and dependability were the calling cards of this fabulous car.
The Model T was simple and tough, and most owners could do their own
repair work.
Although this Model T was later painted blue, 1914 was the first
year in which all Model Ts were painted black, a trend that would
continue until 1925. Black was the quickest drying color and
allowed the price of the Model T to remain low. Lower in fact in
1914, than in 1908 when the car was introduced. In 1914, Henry Ford
also announced a $5 a day minimum for his employees for an eight-hour
day, while the competition was paying half that much and requiring a
nine-hour day. Also 1914, was the first full year of work after the
automation of the assembly line.
On this Model T, the driver's side door does not open, it is a
decorative panel. Although several Ford models made in Canada had
four operational doors, the US made models would not have a functional
fourth door until 1926. Also note that the Model T has 3 pedal controls
and a lever on the floor. The Brass radiator and accessories would be
discontinued in 1916. The Model T was the first Ford to sport the
left-hand driver position that would become the standard in American
cars.
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