20 bhp, 176.7 cu. in. four-cylinder inline L-head engine, two-speed planetary transmission, solid front axle and live rear axle with transverse semi-elliptic leaf springs, driveshaft brake and two-wheel mechanical drum brakes. Wheelbase: 100"

- Offered from an important private collection

- Attractive Ford town car body

- Plush lilac upholstery

Probably no car has had as great an effect on a nation as Henry Ford’s Model T. Introduced in December 1908, it remained in production, in much the same form, for 19 years, during which time 15 million were built. In the 1920s, its price dropped as low as $265.

By far most Model Ts were touring cars, with nearly 8,000 built in Ford’s October 1908 to September 1909 fiscal year. The touring car sold for $850, slightly more than the $825 runabout, which sold only 2,351 units, thus proving the utility of the larger body. There were, however, other more luxurious styles, a two-passenger coupe and a seven-passenger landaulet, both selling for $950. A town car, listed at $1,000, was the most expensive style in the catalog. In a time of decreasing Ford prices, the town car was amazingly long-lived. It remained in the catalog through 1919, by which time the price had been reduced to $700. Production that year was a mere 17 units.

This is a very nice example of an early Model T; its serial number dates it to May 1909, and it is fitted with a town car body. Its restoration, completed some years ago, presents well, the overall appearance being very nice. Acquired by the current owner from the Al Wiseman Collection in 2007, it has a red exterior and plush upholstery in lilac satin and purple velvet. It runs on white rubber tires and is nicely appointed with a wicker umbrella stand on the running board. Ford built just 236 Town Cars in 1909; with only a handful of actual survivors, this Model T with an authentic recreation of these town car bodies warrants close attention from enthusiasts.

Please note, as part of a large, climate-controlled private collection, this car has not been driven in several years. RM strongly advises a thorough mechanical inspection prior to road use.