Ford Model A (1903)
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- See also Ford Model A (1927)
| Ford Model A | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Also called | Fordmobile Ford Model AC |
| Production | 1903–1904 1700 produced |
| Predecessor | Ford Quadricycle |
| Successor | Ford Model B Ford Model C |
| Body style | 2-seat runabout rear-entry 4-seat tonneau |
| Engine | Flat-2 |
| Transmission | 3-speed planetary |
| Wheelbase | 72 in (1.8 m) |
| Curb weight | 1,240 lb (562 kg) |
| Designer | Henry Ford |
The original Ford Model A, also called the Fordmobile, was the first car produced by Ford Motor Company, beginning production in 1903. Dr. Ernst Pfenning of Chicago, Illinois became the first owner of a Model A on July 23, 1903. 1,750 cars were made from 1903 through 1904. The Model A was replaced by the Ford Model C during 1904 with some sales overlap.
The car came as a two-seater runabout or four-seater tonneau model with an option to add a top. The horizontal-mounted flat-2, situated at the amidships of the car, produced 8 hp (6 kW). A 3-speed planetary transmission was fitted, a Ford signature later seen on the Ford Model T. The car weighed 1,240 lb (562 kg) and could reach a top speed of 45 mph (72 km/h). It had a 72 in (1.8 m) wheelbase and sold for a base price of US$750. Options included a rear tonneau with two seats and a rear door for $100, a rubber roof for $30 or a leather roof for $50.
The company had spent almost its entire $28,000 initial investment funds with only $223.65 left in its bank account when the first Model A was sold. The success of this car model generated a profit for the Ford Motor Company, Henry Ford's first successful business.
Although Ford advertised the Model A as the "most reliable machine in the world", it suffered from many problems common to vehicles of the era, including overheating and slipping transmission bands. The Model A was sold only in red by the factory, though some were painted other colors.[citation needed]
[edit] Model AC
Some 1904 Model A cars were equipped with the larger, more powerful engine of the Model C and were sold as the Model AC.
[edit] References
- David L. Lewis (2005). 100 Years of Ford. Publications International, 16–17. ISBN 0-7853-7988-6.
- Early Ford. Retrieved on August 20, 2006.
