1931 Ford Model A Roadster

Description

Don't count the antique car hobby out just yet, because cars like this 1931 Ford Model A Deluxe Roadster still represent a great deal of fun for a reasonable amount of cash. And to be honest, this is one of the very best Model As we've ever seen, with a fantastic look and a few modifications to make it ideal for touring use.

Henry Ford didn't like red paint because it was expensive, but you can't argue that it doesn't look fantastic on this dashing roadster. Certainly one of the most desirable body styles, it's perfect for two to go anywhere in comfort, with the convenience of a rumble seat for two more, just in case. The finish quality is quite good, probably better than the factory could have managed in 1930, and it offers the right shine that makes it seem period-appropriate. There are a few minor signs of use, but they really are minor, and the charm of the black fenders against the red bodywork is hard to resist. The belt moldings are also black, which makes for great contrast, and the only thing that might make this car look better is a single straw-colored pinstripe to highlight those moldings and match the wheels. Ford used stainless steel (which they called "rustless" steel) for the grille shell and headlights, so those parts shine up beautifully, as do the door handles and other bright parts. With dual side mounts, it has a sporting, upscale look, and it also allows the installation of a correct trunk rack in back, which adds practicality.

The bright tan leatherette interior is beautifully finished and almost looks too well-tailored for this to be a humble Model A. Matching door panels help make it feel bright inside, and there's a durable rubber mat on the floor, as original. The familiar Model A controls include the big hard rubber steering wheel with hub-mounted headlight switch, a floor-mounted 3-speed shifter, and the centrally-mounted instrument panel with accessory temperature gauge hanging underneath. The box on the floor ahead of the seat is an aftermarket heater which makes this Model A nice and toasty on cool evenings and is a big boon to comfort at the far edges of the touring season. A beautiful tan canvas convertible top looks great and folds easily, and the aforementioned rumble seat is upholstered to match the interior. Looks like fun, doesn't it?

The familiar 200 cubic inch inline-4 is the heart and soul of the Model A. Torquey and easy to drive, this one runs superbly thanks to the ministrations of a long-term Model A enthusiast. It still runs the original Zenith updraft carburetor, now protected by a modern air filter, as well as the copper plug leads that are the essence of simplicity. The only notable upgrade is an alternator in place of the generator, and it has been painted dark green to match the block and it almost disappears. It starts easily and zips through the gears (remember to double-clutch!), and it always feels quick and agile on the open road. Model A brakes are still mechanical, but they're properly set up here so they feel strong and confident and you can see how well-detailed the chassis is in the photos, right down to the original-style exhaust system for that famous Model A sound. Beautiful 19-inch welded wire spoke wheels are standard equipment and carry 4.75/5.00-19 Firestone wide whitewalls that really dress the little roadster up nicely.

A favorite among collectors and first-timers, this is a tour-ready Model A that will draw a lot of appreciative glances everywhere it goes, but nobody will love it more than the guy who owns it. Call today!