1931 Ford Model A Roadster

51 Bids Winner - sangetavy3
2:30 PM, 27 Mar 2023Vehicle sold
Sold for

$12,022

(inc. Buyer’s Premium)
Winner - sangetavy3

Background

PLEASE NOTE THAT AN AUCTION PREMIUM WILL BE CHARGED, ON TOP OF THE HAMMER PRICE, OF 5%. STARTING JAN. 16TH 2023, THIS APPLIES TO ALL AUCTIONS ON THE MARKET, AND FEES ARE MIN. $500 / MAX. $5,000.

Following the departure of the Model T, Ford needed to go back to the drawing board. The next product had to be an incremental upgrade, and the Model A was born. Ford shifted more than 4 million of these, which shouldn't come as a surprise because the car quite rightly deserved that. It was available in a variety of body styles, and the most popular one is said to be the Model A Roadster.

  • A3206015
  • 1114
  • 4-Cylinder
  • manual
  • Tan
  • Orange Leather
  • Left-hand drive
  • Petrol

Vehicle location
Bakersfield, CA, United States

Background

PLEASE NOTE THAT AN AUCTION PREMIUM WILL BE CHARGED, ON TOP OF THE HAMMER PRICE, OF 5%. STARTING JAN. 16TH 2023, THIS APPLIES TO ALL AUCTIONS ON THE MARKET, AND FEES ARE MIN. $500 / MAX. $5,000.

Following the departure of the Model T, Ford needed to go back to the drawing board. The next product had to be an incremental upgrade, and the Model A was born. Ford shifted more than 4 million of these, which shouldn't come as a surprise because the car quite rightly deserved that. It was available in a variety of body styles, and the most popular one is said to be the Model A Roadster.

Overview

This is a 1931 Model A Roadster, which means it got all the mid-life updates that Ford offered, like a taller body, larger grille, slightly different panels, stainless steel trim, etc. The car's condition is visibly good, despite that, it's nearing its centennial. You can see more photos of the car and closer photos of the exterior, interior, and engine bay in the high-resolution photo gallery below. It was a monumental model in Ford's history. It brought success to the Detroit carmaker and provided much-needed momentum after the Model T. The 20 million Ford to be produced was a Model A.

Exterior

The Model A was offered in a variety of body styles — from the Roadster to Pickup, Saloon to Phaeton, there was a lot to choose from. The Ford Model A Roadster was priced at just under $400, and it soon became a popular choice for new car buyers. With the 1930 model onwards, Ford brought some changes to the exterior, which continued with the 1931 Model A, too. It's down to one's personal preference on which they prefer; but regardless of the car they choose, the Model A was one definitive step forward for Ford customers.

Interior

The standard bench seat inside the Model A Roadster could be supplemented by an optional rumble seat in the boot. Okay, it missed out on the weather protection of the foldable roof, but seriously it's not a bad way to enjoy a drive with more friends and family. The interior of the 1931 example is, as expected, limited in terms of equipment, but it appears classy, uncluttered, and most importantly, still in good shape.

Mechanical

With the Model A, Ford moved away from the wooden frame of the Model T and instead incorporated a steel frame. The engine was a 4-cylinder unit that made about 40 hp and came equipped with a conventional ignition system. A three-speed gearbox and drum brakes on all four corners were standard. While offered in a variety of body styles, its wheelbase was the same across the model range. Options like the rumble seat (mentioned above), side-mounted spare wheel, etc. further helped owners make their Model A truly their own.

History

The Model T was on its way out and it was clear that a more sophisticated car was needed in the Ford line up. Work on the Model A began in 1926 with a clean slate, and Ford was able to showcase the car in late 1927. The response was overwhelming and Ford delivered. Which explains the car's great success! Odometer shows 1,114 miles.

Summary

As the car to replace the Model T and the first one to bear the famous Blue Oval, the Model A is a milestone in Ford's history. Plus with the great advancement, Ford made with it, over the preceding model, the car turned out to be a tremendous success. And even as a classic, it's expected to continue with that progress. The mechanicals are generally simple to work on and there's a lot of restoration support, we think owning the Model A is bound to be a joyous experience.

Estimated $12,000 - $18,000.

PLEASE NOTE: The vehicles from this collection have been sitting for a number of years. Mechanical and running condition of each lot is unknown, and they are being sold 'as is'. This vehicle is being sold on Bill of Sale only.

About this auction

Seller

Private: Sam Biggs


Viewings Welcome

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and is strictly by appointment. To book one in the diary, please get in contact.

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