For Sale: 1911 Ford Model T in Saint Louis, Missouri

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