Vehicle Description
1908 Model-S Ford Roadster. Nice Restoration. Serial No. (2994)
Built in 1908, just prior to the introduction of the Model T.
Complete with lights, fenders, top, splash aprons and mother-in-
law seat. The legendary Ford Motor Company began selling cars in
June of 1903. Their first model, was logically called the Model A.
During the next five years, Ford would produce a variety of 2, 4
and 6 cylinder models. In 1906, Ford introduced a new model, called
the Model N. The Model N had a four-cylinder engine with a two
speed planetary transmission. It developed 15 horsepower and had an
84-inch wheelbase. The Model N was an instant success-it was a
reliable, light-weight, four-cylinder car that was offered at a
fraction of the price of the competitions four-cylinder cars. The
success of the Model N became the basis for two other vehicles-the
models R and S. Both were built using the same chassis and engine
as the Model N but had different body designs. The Models N, R and
S were built from 1906 until 1908 when Ford would announce another
legendary new car, the famous Model T. We are proud to offer a rare
and very authentic, 1908 Ford Model S Roadster. This is one of the
last Fords made prior to the introduction of the Model T. The Model
S roadster was the sportiest of the N, R, S models with its long
fenders, short running boards, scuttle cowl and the taller 30 x 3
wood wheels. Today, it is considered by collectors to be the most
desirable of the Model N, R, and S models. This 1908 Model S
roadster is being offered for sale for the first time in many
years, having been just removed from a significant collection where
it was preserved in a climate controlled environment. Upon close
examination, this car has always been a well cared for car. It in
an older restoration and was restored at a time when great original
brass era cars were available. This car has not been re-created
from remnants or pieced together from parts like so many other
early brass cars. This car retains its original body, fenders, hood
and radiator, which are in very nice original condition. The
chassis is all correct and authentic as well. The rearend assembly,
frontend assembly, 30 x 3 clincher wheels, steering column,
suspension, transmission, pedals, etc are all correct and original
to this car. The original 15 horsepower engine, serial #2994, is
complete with its proper oiler, manifolds, timer, etc. As withall
early brass cars oil does puddle under the car especially after
driving.For reliable driving, a later Model T Ford carburetor has
been added to the original Model S manifold. This car also has an
unusual, accessory KW ignition system, which appears complete but
is not hooked up. The car is currently operating from its original
coilbox and timer battery system. Close inspection of the usual
wear items such as pedals, steering column quadrant, emergency
brake ratchet, spring shackle bushings, etc clearly show that this
is not a worn out car, but, a very low mileage car that was always
well cared for. The exterior paint is older but has mellowed
nicely. There are the expected signs of cosmetic wear that one
would expect to see on an older restored brass car. The seat
assemblies were properly restored in a period correct
diamond-tufted pattern, done with black leather. Today, the
upholstery is extremely clean and presentable. The car is well
equipped with pair of brass side lamps, a rear brass tail lamp, a
pair of brass headlamps and a bulb horn. All of the brass items,
including the original radiator with its built-in water pump are in
very good condition. This car is fitted with an accessory top that
has self-latching irons and a roll down windshield. There is an
accessory toolbox on the running board. This car has recently been
serviced and started.Click on the video button to see the car
running and driving! Model N, R and S Fords are considered to be
quite desirable by todays collectors of brass era cars. They are
well known and highly regarded cars for brass era touring
enthusiasts. They are easy to operate and agile to drive. They
offer spirited performance and will keep up with most other
four-cylinder cars of the pre-1910 era. This Ford Model S Roadster
would be a welcomed participant for Horseless Carriage Club of
America tours and other brass car events and shows. Authentic
examples, such as this one, rarely come on the market. It will
become a great addition to any early car collection.