Introduced in 1908, the Ford Model T was more than just an invention, it changed the way Americans lived. Henry Ford’s proud little motor car became a cultural icon, awakening a nation to the prospect of faster, more reliable transportation. The Model T was the most affordable and attainable car on the road and would introduce the still relatively small automaker to the world market.

Unlike other vehicles of its day, the Model T had its steering wheel on the left-hand side, a layout that would become an industry standard, thanks in no small part to the model’s overwhelming popularity. Even more impressive was its innovative engine, which featured a block and crankcase cast as a single unit and a removable cylinder head. It produced 20 horsepower, enabling speeds over 40 mph. Overall, they were great cars, and the public bought them in increasingly large numbers for the ensuing two decades.

This 1911 Ford Model T Touring is finished in black with red pinstriping. It rides on black painted wheels with black rubber tires. Notable features include a winged radiator mascot, a driver-side mirror, a horn, brass step plates on the running boards, and acetylene-powered brass headlights and cowl lights with the canister on the driver-side running board. The 177-cubic-inch L-head inline-four breathes through a Holley carburetor. Located on the dashboard is a knob to adjust fuel mixture and a radiator choke cable for use when hand-cranking the engine. The interior features button-tufted bench seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a Stewart speedometer.

This Model T features period aftermarket upgrades including a Berg’s belt-driven water pump, K-W Ignition Auto-Synchronous spark-coil box, and the rare companion accessory, a K-W Master-Vibrator. This useful feature bypasses the individual contact points on the four spark coils with a single control that applies uniform timing for all cylinders, preventing misfires and rough running.

Proudly on display within the Vehicle Vault Collection since January 2012, this Ford Model T is the ultimate entry point into classic car ownership, eligible for Brass Era and Horseless Carriage Club of America events and tours. Offering a fun and immersive, hands-on driving experience and simple maintenance with affordable and readily available replacement parts, it represents a wonderful opportunity to acquire a true automotive icon, revered during its era as "The Universal Car."