Vehicle Description
One of the drawbacks of nearly any successful product is that it
will eventually need to be redesigned or completely replaced at
some point. Changing public tastes, advancements in technology, and
increased competition all contribute to this constant need to
evolve. For Henry Ford, evolution was not something he particularly
cared for. By the mid-1920s, his Model T and its production methods
had already proven to be among the most significant inventions of
the twentieth century, with sales approaching fifteen million
units. Ford was one of the most powerful industrialists in the
world, and yet he seemed resistant to changing what had proven to
work so well. As the T soldiered on, competition from General
Motors gradually eroded Ford sales. It was only when sales slumped
drastically, and dealers sounded alarms that Henry Ford finally
warmed to the idea of a follow-up act for the venerable Model T.
The new Model A's design incorporated many of the same fundamental
principles which the Model T pioneered. Ford's Design for
Manufacturability ethos meant the Model A was equally as efficient
to build as the T, while still able to accommodate greater
customizable options and features that buyers demanded.
Mechanically, the Model A represented a vast improvement over the
T. Power came from a 201 cubic inch, water-cooled L-head inline
four. At 40hp, it was nearly twice as powerful as the T. Gone was
the complex planetary gearbox with its levers and pedals, replaced
by a 3-speed sliding gear transmission with conventional
three-pedal controls for throttle, four-wheel brakes, and clutch.
The chassis was tuned for better handling and ride quality, braking
was vastly improved, and the car was capable of topping out at 65
miles per hour. Nearly as important was Henry Ford's relenting to
his son Edsel when it came to the looks of the new car. The elder
Ford had a certain disdain for the frivolities of cosmetic
appearance, so he turned the task of styling the new car to his
son. Interestingly, Edsel had a gift for aesthetics, and he used
his experience with Lincoln to design a handsome and modern car
that was on par with trends set by the competition. Simultaneously
the end of one era and the beginning of another, the Ford Model A
was a resounding success, selling over four-million examples
between the 1928 and 1931 model years. Today as it was then, the
Model A is affordable, delightful to drive and easy to service, and
it remains a cornerstone of the collector car hobby, with
tremendous popularity and support the world over. Given the Ford
Model A's popularity with hobbyists, restored examples are not
difficult to find. That said, it is extremely rare to find a Model
A that is as well-sorted and fabulous to drive as this outstanding
1929 Standard 5-Window Coupe. This simple and elegant Model A is
one of the best driving, thoroughly sorted examples we have ever
had the pleasure to offer, beautifully restored with great
attention paid to performance and usability. We appreciate the
purity of this Standard model, with a trunk in place of a rumble
seat, monotone black paint, black wall tires, and single
rear-mounted spare. The lack of frivolous accessories highlights
Edsel Ford's inherently pretty design. The quality of the paintwork
on this car is outstanding, with excellent reflections and straight
body panels. Subtle gray pinstripes adorn the body and detailing
includes excellent brightwork on the bumpers, radiator shell, and
factory "Twolite" headlamps. The two-place cabin is cozy yet
comfortable, properly restored using high-quality, period correct
fabrics. The upholstery quality is excellent and consistent with
the overall quality of this outstanding Model A. Luxury isn't a
priority, but the cabin has a certain charm in its simplicity. The
previous owner adapted a subtle yet highly effective LED brake
light in the rear window, in the interest of safety. The light also
features an integrated turn-signal function operated by the toggle
on the gear lever. Amazingly, hardly a squeak or rattle is heard
when driving this A, which is a true testament to the level of care
put into the restoration. Professionally rebuilt by a Model A
specialist, the 201 cubic inch four-cylinder has a host of internal
upgrades for added power and reliability. It starts with fantastic
ease and runs smoothly, thanks to the balanced rotating assembly
with updated pistons. Larger valves improve breathing, and a
lightened V8 flywheel and clutch assembly significantly reduce
effort and further enhance drivability. The gearbox was rebuilt
along with the engine, and it shifts remarkably well for a
non-synchro 'box, feeling slick and rewarding to operate. The
engine, gearbox, brakes, and chassis have all been exquisitely
dialed-in to make this Model A the most exceptional driver we have
experienced. Despite the internal modifications, the engine has an
honest, period-correct look. Components such as the exhaust
manifold show signs of regular use and the same can be said for the
undercarriage and suspension, which is tidy and appropriately
detailed. The Ford Model A's simple charm and approachable nature
continue to draw enthusiasts the world over. We are very impressed
by this example's exceptional mechanical condition and beautiful
cosmetic presentation. This remarkable Model A is on-the-button and
ready to delight its next keeper with many pleasurable miles.
