| Classification |
Social Sciences/Transportation and Communications
Technology/Motor Vehicles, Aeronautics, Astronautics |
| Date |
1929 |
| Description |
Automobile, 1929 Ford Model A pickup truck, dark green (appears blue in photograph) with black fenders and running boards, tan top and brown leather seats with gold painted wire wheels, natural wood rear bumper, restored and in operating condition, purchased in 2003 by the Detroit Historical Museum.
In 1928, Henry Ford began production of the "Model A", the car that was to replace the "Model T" Ford. For nearly two decades, the "Model T" called "The car that put America on wheels," it was the car of choice for the working man's family.
The arrival of the "Model A" Ford was one of the most anticipated events in automotive history. "When first shown, over 10 Million people flocked to Ford dealers to see the car in just 2 days. Thousands of these viewers placed orders for the car, assuring its instant sales success.
Unlike the "Model T," the "Model A was produced in a wide variety of body styles and colors. It featured an all-new 4-cylinder engine of 40 horsepower. A 3-speed manual transmission with a floor mounted shift lever replaced the pedal operated 2 speed transmission of the "Model T."
The "Model A" proved to be one of the most dependable and durable cars ever built. However, after sales of nearly 5 million units, production ceased in 1931. Ford's chief competitor, Chevrolet was now powered by a new 6-cylinder engine, which simply out classed the 4 cylinder "Model A". In addition, Plymouth was developing a 6-cylinder engine for its new models. It was obvious that the era of the 4-cylinder engine in the American family car was doomed.
As a result, Henry Ford introduced the all-new Ford V-8 engine in 1932. With this type engine, Ford was the horsepower and performance leader of the low price car field until 1955, when both Chevrolet and Plymouth began offering V-8 engines.
This Detroit Historical Museum purchase is the most recent addition to our automotive collection. It is one of the more rare examples of a "Model A," a 1929 "Roadster Pickup Truck," which features a cloth top that can be lowered to provide an open vehicle like a modern day convertible. A closed body pickup truck was also available.
|
| Object ID |
2003.007.001 |
| Object Name |
Truck |
| Other Name |
1929 Ford Model A Pickup Truck |
| Recfrom |
City of Detroit Purchase |
| Sub-category |
Land Transportation -- Motorized |
| Subjects |
Automobiles |
| Title |
1929 Ford Model A Pickup Truck |
| Year Range from |
1929 |
|
