1922 Ford Model T

Over a span of 19 years, Henry Ford's Model T transformed the landscape of automobile manufacturing and significantly impacted everyday life in both America and globally. Launched at a price of $600 in 1908, the Model T became accessible to a wider audience, with prices dropping to as low as $260 by the conclusion of its production in 1927. Ultimately, more than 15 million units were produced, establishing the Model T as a vehicle for the general populace.

Although it may seem unassuming at first glance, the Model T was, in reality, a highly advanced vehicle. Its remarkable durability stemmed from Ford's early choice to employ lightweight yet robust vanadium alloy steel in various parts. However, the true standout feature was the Model T's four-cylinder engine. This dependable 177 cubic-inch engine, characterized by its one-piece cylinder block, detachable cylinder head, and fine-grain castings, produced a modest 20-rated horsepower. Nevertheless, it delivered an impressive peak torque of 83 pounds-feet at just 900 revolutions per minute, ensuring sufficient power for the rudimentary roads of its time.

The Model T assumed numerous roles, being utilized as ambulances, fire trucks, panel trucks, depot hacks, flatbed trucks, and even farm tractors and snowmobiles when fitted with a multitude of factory and aftermarket accessories and equipment. By 1918, the company offered its own dedicated truck chassis, with the one-ton 'TT' listing for 600. Additionally, with the addition of an accessory slide-in cargo bed, the basic Model T Runabout could very nicely double as a pickup truck when required.

The 1922 Model T was offered as a three-door, five-passenger tourer, a 2-passenger runabout, a 2-door, five-passenger sedan, a coupe, and a sedan. Additionally, the Model T was sold as a rolling chassis and as a truck chassis. Throughout the history of the Model T the most poplar Model T body style was the touring car. More touring cars were sold every year than any other body style.

The L-head four-cylinder engine had a 176.7 cubic-inch displacement, a 3.75-inch bore, a 4-inch stroke, and a 3.98:1 compression ratio. It had solid valve lifters and three main bearings and produced 20 horsepower at 1,600 RPM and 83 lb-ft of torque at 900 RPM. The transmission was a two-speed planetary unit with a multiple-disc clutch and torque tube drive. There was a contracting band in the transmission, a hand-operated internal expanding brakes on the rear wheels, a parking brake on the rear wheels, and a foot brake that stopped the driveshaft.

Prices ranged from $348 for the two-door, five-passenger tourer to $725 for the sedan. Prices decreased by approximately $5 over the previous year and would continue its downward trend beginning on October 17.

by Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2025