22 hp, 176 cu. in. side-valve L-head four-cylinder engine, two-speed planetary transmission, transverse leaf springs and solid axles in the front and rear, hand-operated mechanical brakes, and the rear wheels are the only ones with foot-activated contracting bands on the driveshaft. Wheelbase: 100 in.

• First full year of Model T production

• Recent servicing

• Beautiful brass trim with optional windshield, bulb horn, and headlights

The ubiquitous Model T, or Tin Lizzie as it was affectionately known, came to market in October of 1908; this was the car that Henry Ford endeavored to produce for nearly twenty years. By the end of 1927, when the car was discontinued, more than 15 million were produced. Rugged simplicity was its hallmark. The lightweight steel chassis was powered by a 22 horsepower, side-valve four-cylinder engine and a two-speed planetary transmission, affording a top speed of 45 mph and delivering 25 mpg. The least expensive was the three-seat runabout at $825.00, and just $25.00 more for the touring car.

Automotive aficionados with tell you that a Model T was available in any color so long as it was black. That is partially true, as the first Model T’s were actually available in red, grey, or green. All-black did not come until 1914, when, in the interest of production line speed, Henry Ford chose one color. Why black? Ford determined that black paint dried the fastest, which helped speed production.

The first year of full production for the Model T was 1909 and 7,728 units were touring cars, like this well-equipped example. Painted an authentic red with black top and black leather interior, it rather remarkably still has its original seats intact, displaying just a few small tears. Subjected to a complete restoration eight years ago, the engine and mechanicals are reportedly in excellent condition, with some recent servicing. The motor is of the correct type; however, it is not original to the car. The interior wood is nice, including the floor and the dash. Options included the windshield, gas headlamps, a bulb horn, and a pair of period E&J brass lamps. Fitted with proper natural rubber tires, it makes quite a statement with its vibrant color combination and lustrous brass trim.