Ford Model A (1903–04)

In this article we will explore the fascinating world of Ford Model A (1903–04), a topic that has captured the attention of researchers, enthusiasts and the curious alike. Ford Model A (1903–04) has been the object of debate, study and admiration throughout history, and its relevance in today's world only grows. Through this article, we aim to delve into the different aspects that make up Ford Model A (1903–04), from its origin to its most recent applications, in order to better understand its impact on our society and the world in general. Join us on this journey of discovery and learning about Ford Model A (1903–04).

See also: Ford Model A (1927–1931)
Ford Model A
Overview
ManufacturerFord
Also calledFordmobile
Ford Model AC
Production1903–1904
DesignerHenry Ford
Body and chassis
Body style2-seat runabout
rear-entry 4-seat tonneau
Powertrain
EngineFlat-2 1668 cc (101.788 cu in) 8 hp[1][2]
Transmission2-speed planetary
Dimensions
Wheelbase72 in (1.8 m)[3]
Curb weight1,240 lb (562 kg)
Chronology
PredecessorFord Quadricycle
SuccessorFord Model B
Ford Model C

The original Ford Model A is the first car produced by the Ford Motor Company, beginning production in 1903. Ernest Pfennig, a Chicago dentist, became the first owner of a Model A on July 23, 1903;[4] 1,750 cars were made in 1903 and 1904 at the Ford Mack Avenue Plant, a modest rented wood-frame building on Detroit's East Side, and Ford's first facility. The Model A was replaced by the Ford Model C during 1904 with some sales overlap.

Ad for the Model A from a December 15, 1903 newspaper

The car came as a two-seater runabout for $800 or the $900 [5] four-seater tonneau model with an option to add a top. The horizontal-mounted flat-2, situated amidships of the car, produced 8 hp (6 kW). A planetary transmission was fitted with two forward speeds and reverse, a Ford signature later seen on the Ford Model T. The car weighed 1,240 lb (562 kg) and could reach a top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h). It had a 72-inch (1.8 m) wheelbase and sold for a base price of US$750. Options included a rear tonneau with two seats and a rear door for $100, a rubber roof for $30 or a leather roof for $50. Band brakes were used on the rear wheels.[1] However, it was $150 more than its most direct competitor, the Oldsmobile Curved Dash, so did not sell as well.[4]

The company had spent almost its entire $28,000 initial investment funds ($979,896 in 2024 dollars [6]) with only $223.65 left in its bank account when the first Model A was sold. The success of this car model generated a profit for the Ford Motor Company, Henry Ford's first successful business.[7]

Although Ford advertised the Model A as the "most reliable machine in the world", it suffered from many problems common to vehicles of the era, including overheating and slipping transmission bands. The Model A was sold only in red by the factory, though some were later repainted in other colors.[8]

Ford Model AC

1904 Model A cars were equipped with the larger, 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) engine of the Model C and were sold as the Model AC.[1] The Model AC can be visually distinguished from the Model A by its larger six-by-three-bar radiator.[9]

References

  1. ^ a b c Kimes & Clark, Jr. (1989), pp. 547–548.
  2. ^ Dusan Ristic-Petrovic. "Image: Miscellaneous Brochures and Data/Autos of 1904 Booklet/Autos of 1904-17". Oldcarbrochures.com. Retrieved 2022-08-18.
  3. ^ "1903 Ford Model A Two | conceptcarz.com".
  4. ^ a b Lacey, Robert (1986). Ford: The Men and the Machine. Little, Brown and company. ISBN 0-316-51166-8.
  5. ^ ad in Automobile Review magazine, Chicago, Dec. 15, 1903, p. 10
  6. ^ 1634–1699: McCusker, J. J. (1997). How Much Is That in Real Money? A Historical Price Index for Use as a Deflator of Money Values in the Economy of the United States: Addenda et Corrigenda (PDF). American Antiquarian Society. 1700–1799: McCusker, J. J. (1992). How Much Is That in Real Money? A Historical Price Index for Use as a Deflator of Money Values in the Economy of the United States (PDF). American Antiquarian Society. 1800–present: Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. "Consumer Price Index (estimate) 1800–". Retrieved February 29, 2024.
  7. ^ "Early Ford". Retrieved February 11, 2010.
  8. ^ Auto Museum Online - 1903 Ford Model A
  9. ^ "1904 Ford Model 'AC' 10hp Four Seater Rear Entrance Tonneau: Engine No. 982". Bonhams. May 2014. Archived from the original on April 26, 2016. Retrieved August 29, 2017.

Bibliography