1920 Ford Model T Roadster

Henry Ford's Model T would become the world's first truly mass-produced automobile. It was introduction in October of 1908 and had a wheelbase chassis which measured 100 inches and a track width of 56-inches. It was both lightweight and durable thanks to the vanadium steel. Power was from a four-cylinder side-valve engine displacing 2,896cc and offering 20 horsepower.

During the 19-year production lifespan, one of the things that changed most often was the price. Notable early developments were the use of electric lighting in 1915, a switch from brass to a black-finished radiator in 1916, and the option of an electric starter in 1919.

By 1915, Ford switched from offering a range of colors, settling on just black because the paint dried more quickly. Some dealers, however, began repainting cars in brighter colors after receiving them from the factory.

By the start of 1919 Ford had built more than 2.8 million Model Ts.

This Ford Model T Roadster is from the collection of Arnold E. Petsche. It has been given a comprehensive restoration and finished in black over a black interior. The 177 cubic-inch Flathead four-cylinder engine is fitted with a Single Updraft carburetor and produces 22.5 horsepower. There is a 2-speed Planetary manual transmission, leaf spring suspension, and rear mechanical drum brakes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2018