Vehicle Description
Arguably the most significant and revolutionary automobile ever
produced, the Ford Model T needs little introduction. As much a
cultural icon as an automobile, it put the world on wheels and
transformed the motorcar from a frivolous luxury into a necessary
tool for living in America. The Model T owes much of its success to
Henry's moving assembly line, which meant it could be produced in
numbers previously unimaginable by any other car company. Preceding
models such as the Model S or Model K approached 10,000 units,
while the Model T topped fifteen million by the time production
ended in the late twenties. The ripple effect of Ford's success
shaped entire cities and altered the face of labor in America
forever. For all of Henry Ford's business acumen and his stroke of
genius by developing the moving assembly line, he was also quite a
pragmatist when it came to engineering. Design wise; the T wasn't
necessarily an innovative machine. But it was robust, enormously
versatile, easily serviced and above all, affordable. The basic
formula of the Model T was unchanged from its introduction in 1909
through the end of production in 1927. However, a dizzying array of
evolutionary changes occurred throughout the production run to
improve reliability and production efficiency. Among the most
significant distinctions between early and late models was the use
of brass. Brass featured more readily on cars built before
mid-1916, while later models featured more austere looking
painted-steel radiators and nickel-plated bright work. Despite the
humble roots, the Model T remains one of the most essential of all
collector cars, and examples are found in museums and private
collections the world over, standing proudly among many more
glamorous machines. This 1911 Model T is a very desirable early
model featuring the Open Runabout body. Wearing a well-maintained
restoration completed around 2007, this is an attractive and
enjoyable example for the hobbyist and collector. For the 1911
model year, Ford completely redesigned the Model T range. While
outwardly similar, the new car had a revised engine, new fenders,
and a reshaped grille. Refinement of the product line continued,
with the coupe and landaulet phased out. The Ford line for 1911
included no fewer than three different two-passenger Runabout
configurations, including the standard Runabout two-seater with
individual seats, the Torpedo Runabout with doors, and the Open
Runabout with a flat two-passenger bench seat. These unique models
represented Ford's first foray into producing a sporty Model T.
These cars stood apart significantly from the rest of the range
thanks to the lowered steering column, revised seating position,
rounded fenders, and longer hood. While the three are mechanically
identical, the Open Runabout as featured here, is distinguished by
the omission of doors to the body. Finished in handsome Navy Blue
complemented by French Grey striping and black interior plus
undercarriage, this T Open Runabout is a charming example. The
paintwork, nearly impossible to not love and one of the most
attractive colors seen on a T, remains in very good condition. The
brass throughout the car is fabulous, shining brightly as if
recently restored. Equipment includes brass Ford-script E&J
headlamps and cowl lamps, a gorgeous brass radiator shell, polished
brass "double-twist" horn and a beautiful acetylene tank on the
running board.. Behind the passenger compartment sits the round
fuel tank to round out the classic roadster look. The driver's
compartment is exquisitely detailed with beautifully executed black
leather upholstery on the seat, a correct Ford-script rubber mat
and beautifully finished wood on the cowl panel. Weather protection
comes via the full, dual pane windscreen, which folds for fair
weather use, and the folding leather top. The top fit is excellent
and it is well detailed with correct brass hardware.. While a Model
T engine is an exercise in minimalism, this example is nonetheless
very well presented and detailed. It is exceptionally clean,
showing little use since the restoration was completed, and the
engine is detailed with appropriate fittings and hardware. Finishes
on the chassis are also excellent, with the undercarriage appearing
incredibly clean and tidy. For ease of operation an electric
starter has been added. A notable feature of this T is the 3:1
Ruckstell rear axle, a common period upgrade for T's of this
vintage. Along with its many other "firsts" the Model T can be
credited with forming the foundation of the collector car hobby.
With over 15 million built over the course of 19 years, there is
certainly no shortage of cars to choose from. However, it is the
early brass cars such as this that command attention from serious
collectors. This example's relatively rare configuration and
outstanding restoration set it apart from the usual. It remains in
lovely show-quality condition and is fully usable and ready for
enjoyment. Offers welcome and trades considered For additional
details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7854-1911-ford-model-t-open-runabout/
