Own a Piece of History – 1931 Ford Model A
See this 1931 Ford Model A for sale here.
The Ford Model A was unveiled in December 1927 as the successor to the iconic Model T. After nearly 20 years of production, the Model T was getting outdated, and Henry Ford knew it was time for a change.
The Model A brought a completely fresh look and more modern design to Ford’s lineup. It had a longer wheelbase than the Model T along with a lower and more streamlined body style. This gave it a more refined and upscale appearance compared to the utilitarian Model T.
Several new body styles were available including two-door and four-door sedans, convertible cabriolets, coupes, station wagons, and commercial vehicles like pickup trucks. Customers could choose from up to nine different exterior color options, a major change from the Model T which was only offered in black.
Under the hood, the Model A had a new 201 cubic inch inline 4-cylinder engine producing 40 horsepower, far surpassing the 20 horsepower from the Model T’s engine. This allowed the Model A to reach top speeds of 65 mph, a major improvement over the Model T’s 45 mph.
The Model A also introduced important new features that brought modern conveniences drivers expected by the late 1920s. Safety glass was used for the windshield for the first time, replacing the basic glass used on the Model T. Electric windshield wipers kept rain and snow off the new safety glass. Adjustable front seats also added comfort for drivers and passengers.
Ford knew that customization and personalization would be important for buyers. The company made a wide array of factory accessories and aftermarket parts available including bug deflectors, bumper guards, chrome trim pieces and spare tire covers. This allowed buyers to customize their Model A’s look.
The Model A was an enormous success for Ford. Nearly 5 million were sold between 1927 and 1931 with over 1 million sold in just the first 6 months of production. It successfully brought Ford into the modern automotive age and remains a landmark vehicle from the early 20th century. More than 90 years after its debut, the Model A is still prized by collectors and automotive enthusiasts today.
Here are some key facts about the Model A:
Little Known Facts:
- The Model A was the first Ford with an electric fuel pump rather than a gravity feed system
- It had hydraulic shock absorbers which were cutting edge for the time
- The battery was located under the front seat instead of under the hood
- A “Buddy Seat” was available as an option for extra passenger space
- Ford licensed the first AM radio option for cars in 1932
Amazing Facts:
- Its price started at just $385 making it affordable for many Americans
- It had a top speed of up to 65 mph, much faster than most cars of the era
- The 4-cylinder engine got up to 40 mpg, very efficient for the time
- Almost 5 million Model As were built, a huge production run for the 1920s
- The Model A could accelerate from 0-20 mph in just 3.3 seconds, very quick by 1920s standards
For production numbers and values, see Conceptcarz.com. Valuation tables can be seen at Caaarguide.com. Complete specifications can also be seen at Classiccardatabase.com. Some history of the Model A can be read at Shaymodelaclub.com.
Nadaguides.com – Average price: $12,800
Image credit – Wikipedia.org
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