c1927 Ford Model-T Speedster

Description

Affectionately known the world over as the ‘Tin Lizzie’, the Model T was introduced by Henry Ford in October 1908 and became a runaway sales success thanks to the combination of rugged mechanicals, strong performance and great value. However, it wasn’t until 1913 that Ford finally managed to introduced his revolutionary new method of building the Model T, the first moving production line, the advent of mass-production also resulting in the famous motto “available in any colour so long as it’s black”. The Model T had a number of outstanding attributes, including mechanical simplicity, controls easy enough for even the novice driver to master and high ground clearance to clear all but the worst roads. The Model T was also affordable and buyers enjoyed a diverse range of body styles. Innovations were few, but for 1926 the fuel tank was relocated to under the cowling on most Model Ts, along with the option of steel-spoked wheels. A choice of exterior colour was again available on the 1926-1927 Model T. Ford also began assembling Model Ts in Australia from complete knock-down kits supplied by Ford Canada, starting with an improvised production line in Geelong in June 1925. Right from the earliest days, Model Ts were being used in competition and various companies began producing speed equipment to extract more power and better performance, including overhead valve conversions from the likes of Rajo and Frontenac capable of doubling the Ford’s power output. Losing weight was another guaranteed way to go faster and various aftermarket body builders offered minimalist two-seat speedster bodywork similar to that found on the car offered here. After 19 years in production, and with more than 15 million vehicles built, the last Model T rolled off the assembly line and into the history books on May 26, 1927. Underlining the Model T’s significance in automotive history, a recent poll saw the Tin Lizzie voted the most influential vehicle of all time.