1928 Ford Model A 2-door sedan

Description

For years, Model A fans have complained about how most newer restorations are "over-done" and "over-accessorized," and they're probably right. These were working-class cars that were affordable and stylish, but still available to the regular guy. This lovely 1928 Ford tudor sedan is not only a rather unusual "steel back" body style, but has a fresh restoration that duplicates much more accurately how it might have been when it was new.

Basic black was, of course, Henry Ford's favorite color, but other colors were available, including the handsome green shown here, which is either Balsam Green or Valley Green, depending on whose color chart you're using. Ford was building hundreds of thousands of Model As, and the books show that more than 208,000 (!) 2-door sedans were built in 1928, making it the most popular model by far. The body received a comprehensive restoration before it was reassembled, probably better than new to be honest. For Ford fans, it's worth noting that this car isn't over-dressed, using a proper single-stage paint that more closely approximates the lacquer that was originally used. Contrasting dark green on the belt moldings adds a subtle touch that was entirely Edsel Ford's doing, making the A attractive as well a functional. A single rear-mounted spare is a refreshing choice (most restorers add dual sidemounts), the drum-style taillights are correct for an early 1928 production car (the left one was standard while the right side could be a dealer-installed option), and the long-grain vinyl top is very nicely finished.

The taupe upholstery is very period-correct and is quite attractive inside the lovely green sedan. More upscale than you'd expect, it has a comfortable 1920s look and details like the shiny door hardware, map pockets in the doors, and attractive garnish moldings add to the upscale look. As usual, front seat passengers got a rubber mat, but the rear seat is carpeted and feels luxurious with plenty of stretch-out space. The A's usual single instrument panel with basic gauges remains the highlight of the interior, along with a hard red rubber steering wheel with the spark control on the left and throttle on the right, and the headlight switch in the center. Of note, this car also carries a correct windshield wiper motor for its build date and turn signals were added during the restoration in the name of safety. But other than that, this one remains very much the way Henry intended.

The 200 cubic inch inline-four is this car's original engine and it's surprisingly energetic in the lightweight little sedan. It's fully rebuilt with only break-in miles and the detailing is quite correct for the period. Experts will notice the presence of a modern 6-volt alternator in place of the original Powerhouse generator, but that's a smart choice and you'll never worry when you go to hit the starter. It retains the original-style copper spark plug leads, but now runs what appears to be a later Tollitson updraft carburetor, which was a popular aftermarket upgrade. There's also a log-style exhaust manifold heater, which, as you'd expect, is pretty inefficient but this was 1928 after all. The 3-speed manual transmission requires a light touch and a quick double-clutch to grab gears, something you'll quickly master with the A's easy-going nature, and the chassis is nicely finished thanks to the comprehensive restoration. Freshly painted 21-inch wire wheels look right and carry fresh Firestone whitewalls, which add an upscale look to the simple little Ford. It looks great!

Nicely restored and accurately detailed, this is a charming Model A that's closer to the original intent than a majority of them out there. Call today!