Vehicle Description
1930 Ford Model A Roadster
Perhaps one of the simplest mass-produced automobiles to leave the
assembly line, volumes have been written, and rewritten, about the
Model A and how it came into being. Of the five drop-top models -
Roadster, Deluxe Roadster, Deluxe Phaeton, Cabriolet and
Convertible Sedan - the single most popular model was, and perhaps
still is, our featured Roadsters. The high production numbers can
be attributed to the fact that they were available all four years
of the Model A's lifespan and they boasted a low starting price -
near $400 for the standard model. By the summer of 1930 though,
roadster production had declined sharply. In an attempt to reverse
the trend, Ford introduced the dressier Deluxe Roadster in August
of 1930. Though Model A aficionados group their beloved vehicles
into two categories - 1928'29 and 1930-'31 due to exterior design
variations during the four-year run - Ford built well over 4
million examples in all their incarnations, meaning that they still
can be easily found for sale at very affordable prices. Thx to
Hemmings.com
This very original 1930 Ford Model A Roadster was the beneficiary
of some restoration within the past 10 years including a new
interior, top, and rumble seat along with an engine overhaul, new
clutch, and throw out bearing. The paint is about 20 years old and
beginning to show its age a bit but this is an excellent driver and
a recipient of a mileage award, (10,000 logged), from the Model A
Restorers Club. And speaking of clubs, Model A's enjoy some of the
most active and faithful following, so if this is your first foray
in early Fords, you'll enjoy a knowledgeable support network that
is nationwide.
Exterior
Despite some scrapes and scratches, especially on the black
fenders, this paint is perfectly presentable, and necks will still
crane to see this car! Contrasting yellow and black make for a
striking appearance and a tasteful red pinstripe complements the
red wire wheels including the side-mounted spares. Running board
step plates are excellent and a chromed radiator-surround with
chrome mesh grille guard is topped with a traditional quail in
flight radiator cap. Dual side mirrors and wind wings are noted as
are chrome laden cowl lighting to help guide your way. All chrome
has a nice shine with mirror-like reflections throughout. The
windshield glass is crystal clear and the black folding canvas top
is in great condition. The mileage award grille badge is proudly
displayed on the radiator. The shiny black trunk provides lots of
extra storage and has a wood-lined interior. Just in front of the
steamer trunk is a rumble seat with room for your mother-in-law and
this area presents as nearly new.
Interior
A comfortable brown textured vinyl grabs you into the single bench
seat and allows for the driver and passenger to sit close for some
old-time spooning, (while parked, of course). A swooping upper and
lower dash in yellow are also enhanced by a red pinstripe. The door
jamb, dash frame, and front window frame show areas of rough metal
under the yellow in an otherwise clean and simple interior. The
steering wheel is in great shape, a testament to early American
workmanship. The polished gauge cluster houses the control center
and looks great. Black vinyl flooring cover surrounds the factory
shifter and handbrake.
Drivetrain
The 201ci inline L-headed four cylinder maintains its vintage
appearance. It was gone through just 3,000 miles ago so the next
caretaker will benefit from the work of a recent overhaul. Fuel is
delivered through a 1-barrel carburetor - a simple unit that must
have been a welcome relief from feeding hay to horses every day.
Model A's are rear-wheel drive, of course, and this one has 3.78
gears that are turned by the factory 3-speed manual transmission
that has been treated to a new clutch, pressure plate and throw out
bearing.
Undercarriage
Some seepage and surface rust are present - remember, this car has
been driven and loved! A few areas of rust-through are seen on some
underside pans. The back side of the red wheels light up an
otherwise metallic underside. The single exhaust terminates at the
rear wheel and appears to be in good condition. Transverse leaf
springs for front and rear round out the suspension as well as
mechanical drum brakes all around.
Drive-Ability
We were excited to drive this piece of history around the grounds
of the Classic Auto Mall and this example didn't disappoint. A
flick of the switch and a press of the foot starter brought the
engine to life, settling into a smooth idle. On our test track it
performed well with ample acceleration, adequate handling and good
braking, although stops need to be planned a bit in advance in
comparison to modern driving. Just a wonderful tour around our
level test track.
Model A's hold a special place in the consciousness of America and
a few "battle scars" don't diminish their uniqueness. Here's one
you can drive and be proud of...a great parade vehicle and believe
it or not, a welcome sight at your local Cars and Coffee. Move over
Mustang GT 500; here's where it ALL started so let's respect the
genesis of the American automotive industry and the freedom it
provided.
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and
collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate
controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8
acres!).
The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and
collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the
I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike.
For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at
(888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come
see the vehicle in person.
With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and
we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host
Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends
in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and
automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history.
Tune in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you
enjoy listening. You can also watch on YouTube!
