For Sale: 1980 Shay Roadster in Christiansburg, Virginia

The 1980 Ford Shay Model A is a factory-authorized, modernized replica of the iconic Ford Model A Roadster. Built by the Shay Motors Corporation (originally the Model A & Model T Motor Car Reproduction Corporation), these cars were unique because they were officially licensed by Ford, built using brand-new Ford Components, and sold directly through Ford Dealerships to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the original car.Harry Shay founded the company in 1978. He struck a deal with Ford, who waived design patents and promoted the cars to drive showroom traffic. The goal was to provide the timeless, vintage styling of the late 1920s combined with the reliability, safety, and easy maintenance of a modern 1980 automobile. Roughly 5,000 Model A replicas were produced between 1979 and 1982.Underneath its vintage exterior, the 1980 Shay is entirely a late-70s/early-80s Ford. It utilizes a modified Ford Pinto chassis and drivetrain, meaning parts are still highly accessible and inexpensive.- Engine: 2.3-liter (140 cu in) SOHC inline 4-cylinder engine (producing roughly 88 horsepower).- Transmission: 4-speed manual transmission or an optional 3-speed automatic.- Brakes: Modern front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.- Electrical: Modern 12-volt electrical system (unlike the original 6-volt Model A)To combat rust and save weight, the Shay features a high-quality, lightweight fiberglass body. Despite the modern underpinnings, it retains excellent period-correct aesthetics:- Rumble Seat: A fully functional rear rumble seat that folds out from the trunk.- Classic Details: Dual "Ugga/Ahooga" horns, a fold-out/tilting front windshield, side curtains, chrome bumpers, and a rear-mounted luggage rack with a storage trunk.- Wheels: Spoke-wire wheels wrapped in wide whitewall tires.- Cabin Comforts: Modern conveniences not found in 1929, such as an under-seat heater, seatbelts, modern turn signals, and an AM/FM radio.