1915 Ford Model T Roadster

Henry Ford pioneered the moving assembly in in 1913 and was first implemented at his Highland Park plant. Within a short amount of time, production time had been cut by a factor of eight. This speed of assembly produced new problems, such as the drying time of the paint which led to exclusive use of black lacquer as it was the only shade that would dry sufficiently quickly. By 1917, all brass bright work and other forms of ornamentation no longer appeared on the Model T. It would not adorn another Ford product for many years.

This particular example is a 1915 Ford Model T Roadster fitted with the 176.7 cubic-inch four-cylinder L-head engine. There is a two-speed planetary transmission and two-wheel mechanical drum brakes. At some point in the cars past it was given a cosmetic restoration which has since faded. The paint has become dull in places and flaked off in others. The seat leather has become hard and cracked in places. There is tape on the steering wheel rim in several places. The engine works but considering its age it would not be considered reliable.

This car was offered for sale at the Vintage Motor Cars sale at Hershey, PA presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $6,000 - $12,000 and offered without reserve. The estimates proved accurate as the lot was sold for a high bid of $12,100 including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2019