The introduction of the Model A Ford in late 1920 represented one of the most significant turnarounds for any automaker in the 20th century. By the close of 1924, with sales of the Model T rapidly sagging in the face of more sophisticated competition, many believed that Henry Ford’s genius had come and gone. However, Ford’s son Edsel, a visionary mind, successfully lobbied his father into finally discontinuing his beloved “Tin Lizzie,” and he allowed the development of a new model.

As expected, the Model A’s introduction was a highly anticipated event, featuring personal comments by Henry Ford in a flurry of pre-launch advertising and interviews. Franklin D. Roosevelt and Mary Pickford were early customers; in fact, several noted Hollywood actors posed for photos with their new Model As, proving the model’s high style and a sort of reverse snob appeal. Ford perfected the art of effective product placement, long before the term was invented, in one of the most successful new product launches in automotive history.

Perhaps it’s only fitting then that the delightful Model A presented here offers the same promotional and advertising potential for its new owner, courtesy of its especially unique outfitting. While Model As could be equipped in a variety of utilitarian guises, tow trucks were particularly rare. This one is liveried for “Mike’s 24-Hour Sunoco Road Service” and carries the blue and yellow Sunoco colors throughout. Fully restored and showing signs of use and enjoyment, it is equipped with myriad accessories, including a Boyce Moto-Meter, fender lamps, a single side-mount spare, sun visor, spotlight, running board-mounted toolbox, auxiliary water temperature, oil pressure gauges, and of course, the complete tow package in the bed of the truck. Although minor cosmetic imperfections are visible, the workmanship is professional and the paint, brightwork, woodwork, and interior upholstery all present very nicely, as does the engine bay. Whether in a local parade or a private collection’s garage setting, the potential application for such a Model A Tow Truck is not only particularly exciting, but the difficulty in recreating such a truck, with all its unusual lighting, accessories, and equipment, would otherwise be especially difficult.