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 toppedfifteen millionby 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
