1914 Ford Model T Speedster

The Ford Model T was a mass-produced automobile. This Model T Speedster began life as one of those 166,000 touring cars that were constructed that year. It carried a price of just $550 which was much less than the price in prior years. Its first owner was Cecil McvVy of Costa Mesa, California and was eventually transformed into a racer and used in local dirt competition events. Over time, the car has been treated to a dropped front axle and period correct lowering brackets made by Craig Hunt. It has a RAJO overhead valve cylinder head and a high-tension Bosch Magneto with side-drive. The engine has a shortened Model A crank drilled for full-pressure lubrication. It is capable of producing over 80 horsepower. To combat all the power, a modified transmission was adapted that included needle bearings for the planetary gears.

Located in the rear is a period correct copper fuel tank with quick release fillers. The radiator was fabricated by Brass Works of San Luis Obispo which was formed in fashion to Edsel Ford's own Model T Speedster.

It is a light and powerful racer that is built to close specifications as an original Speedster of that era. It was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company Auction in Pebble Beach Concours. It was estimated to sell between $40,000-$50,000. The high bid of the day was $37,400; since there was no reserve on the vehicle, it was sold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2007