Ford's Model T was a stellar success story in the automotive industry's early days. Henry Ford's car for the masses wasn't just a trailblazer in personal mobility but introduced many manufacturing principles that are still used today. When the time to retire the Model T rolled around, the Model A replaced it. Running from 1927 to 1931, the Model A was available in a dizzying array of body styles. Up for grabs today is a 1931 Ford Model A with a truck body style and 29,000 miles to its name. The current owner reports that this vehicle has undergone a full restoration to its original specifications before it was purchased from a car dealer. It's also got a few upgrades here and there to make it just that little bit more drivable today.

Exterior and Interior

This beautiful 1931 Ford Model A presents itself with a silver exterior paint coat and a wooden truck bed behind the single-row passenger cabin. You'll observe plenty of period correct details, such as the wire wheels, running boards, and externally-mounted spare wheels. We're told that the car runs on a new set of Lucas wheels as per the current owner and that the electricals and headlamps are functional. Furthermore, turn signals have been added for better drivability and safety in the current era. You'll also find that the old and unreliable vacuum pump windshield wiper system has been upgraded to a modern electrical system. A final point about the exterior that we find particularly interesting is that the current owner says that the vehicle has its original horn in functional condition. Inside, there's a black-themed cabin with a single bench seat to host a driver and passenger. You won't find any of the modern creature comforts that we're spoilt with on today's cars. What you will find is a steering wheel, gear shifter, pedals, and a rudimentary instrument cluster. You'll also note that the front windshield can be tilted out to enhance ventilation, coupled with the wind-down side windows. To be honest, there isn't much else you could ask for in a vehicle of this vintage. Just forget Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for a few hours at a time, and experience what the pre-digital era was like. You'll find it surprisingly and refreshingly liberating.

Engine

This 1931 Ford Model A comes with a 201ci 4-cylinder L-head engine, driving the rear wheels through a sliding-mesh three-speed manual transmission. You'll find that the unassisted steering is surprisingly easy to use once on the move, thanks to the curb weight of the Model A range falling under 2,500 pounds. Drum brakes are present for stopping power, and you'll do well to adopt a more relaxed and anticipatory driving style, as required by a car that's over nine decades old.