Lot details
Registration No: SV 6936
Chassis No: 4609284
Mot Expiry: None

With the introduction of a moving assembly line in 1913, Henry Ford famously turned his Model T into the world's first mass made car. A year later, Model Ts represented 56% of all automobile manufacture in the USA at 308,162 units. However, it was not just the sheer volume of Model Ts rolling off the production line that motorised America, it was the inherent quality of the design. Launched in 1908, the T's chassis and mechanical components were made from exceptionally durable, high-grade vanadium steel. The Ford also featured a compact 2890cc, sidevalve, four-cylinder engine that pioneered the use of a detachable cylinder head. Mounted in unit with the clutch and two-speed epicyclic gearbox assembly, it developed some 23hp at a leisurely 1,600rpm and 80lbft of torque. Top speed was limited to around 45mph depending upon bodywork, whilst brakes operated on both the transmission and rear wheels. With a 100" wheelbase, 10" ground clearance and transverse leaf-sprung suspension, the T was perfectly adapted to unmade roads.
Finished in green over black with red upholstery and bodied as a depot hack, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good overall" condition with regard to its engine, transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim and bodywork, while he rates the paintwork as "fair". Entering the current ownership via our June 2004 Buxton auction, 'SV 6936' was reportedly purchased to help promote a holiday cottage business and as such spent the next four years touring village fetes etc. Little used since 2008, the Model T is said to "need a little work to make it into a good usable truck / coach again".