Ford built its 1,000,000th Model T in 1915, a remarkable testament to Henry Ford’s vision and the widespread appeal of his robust, economical “Tin Lizzie.” Naturally, the vast majority of that year’s production rolled out of Ford’s modern factory in Highland Park, Michigan. A comparatively small number of cars, however, including the 1915 Model T Runabout offered here, were built across the Detroit River at the Walkerville, Ontario plant.

In addition to their relative rarity, these Canada-built Model Ts differed from their Highland Park-made cousins in the details—including, notably, the addition of a functional driver’s side door. The drivetrain remained the tried-and-true 20-horsepower L-head inline-four mated to a two-speed planetary transmission, but engine numbers began with a “C” to indicate their Canadian origin. Such a powerplant, the number of which matches the car’s chassis plate, is properly fitted in this example.

Further adding to this car’s appeal, it sports new-for-1915 features including a curved metal cowl ahead of the firewall, revised cowl lights, and a louvered hood. Yet these cars were among the last to retain the classic brass radiator and brass-rimmed headlamps, and consequently, they are suitable for numerous popular Brass Era tours and events.

As a copy of a 1954 registration on file indicates, this Runabout has spent much of its life in the province where it was born; owned by a Mr. John S. Stewart of Toronto, Ontario at that time, it had by that point been painted in the attractive coat of gray that it still wears today—a welcome departure from the famous Ford black that was the sole factory paint color offered in 1915. It was acquired by the consignor from the Ontario-based collection of Jim Miller in 2013, and it has been carefully maintained since.

Aside from the charmingly patinaed gray-with-pinstripe paintwork, this Model T displays a high degree of correctness throughout, including wooden wheels and worn-but-complete interior upholstery. The correct Kingston brass carburetor is still found under the hood, and the radiator is crowned with an accessory brass winged cap—a sporty touch very much in keeping with the Runabout style.

An automotive milestone, the Ford Model T remains a perennial favorite within the classic car hobby. This well-preserved, Canada-built 1915 Runabout offers endless opportunities for enjoyment at shows and on tours with the worldwide community of enthusiastic Model T owners and drivers.