40 bhp, 200.5 cu. in. four-cylinder inline L-head engine, three-speed manual transmission, solid front axle and live rear axle with transverse semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 103.5 in.

• Offered from the Estate of John O'Quinn

• Rare Canadian-built model

• Nice, older restoration

• Ideal entry to the hobby

In many ways reminiscent of the Model T, the A had a larger and upgraded 200.5-cubic inch engine, developing 40 brake horsepower. Replacing the two-speed planetary transmission of the T was a three-speed selective gearbox, though transverse leaf springs and torque tube drive were retained, but the car had four-wheel brakes. It rode a three-and-a-half inch longer wheelbase and weighed 700 pounds more than its predecessor.

Most noticeable was the styling. Reminiscent of the Lincoln, it was drawn under the watchful eye of Henry’s son Edsel, a connoisseur of aesthetics. The public loved it, queuing up for a first look and placing orders that the factories took months to fill. “The old Ford has joined the procession of ancient history,” wrote the New York Evening Post. “The new Ford enters our lives with flowers and soft music and a pink ribbon across its dove-gray hood.”

This Model A was manufactured at Ford’s Canadian plant in Walkerville, Ontario. The first of Ford’s factories outside the United States, Walkerville was established by Gorden McGregor in 1904. The first cars built were Models B and C. When the Model T was launched, production also began in Canada, as did Model As in December 1927.

An older restoration of an original car, it is a nice example of Ford’s most popular 1929 body style. Attractive in Brewster Green over black fenders and splash aprons, it has a top covered in black fabric and grey cloth upholstery and headliner. Showing only modest wear and tear, it presents admirably. Model As have always been popular collector cars. Because of their ruggedness and excellent metallurgy, many survived, and a robust aftermarket industry ensures that parts and supplies are readily available. A solid Model A like this one can be the perfect entry to the collector car hobby.