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How much did a 1930 Model A cost new?

In 1930, the Ford Model A was a popular and affordable automobile that cost between $385 and $570 new, depending on the specific model and features. The Model A was Ford's successor to the iconic Model T and was produced from 1927 to 1931, making it a quintessential car of the Great Depression era.


Factors Influencing the Price of the 1930 Ford Model A


The price of the 1930 Ford Model A was influenced by several factors, including the model type, body style, and optional features. The base price for the most affordable Model A, the Roadster, was $385. However, the price could increase significantly depending on the chosen body style and added features.



  • Model Types: The Ford Model A was available in a variety of body styles, including the Roadster, Phaeton, Tudor Sedan, Fordor Sedan, and others. The more luxurious models, such as the Fordor Sedan, had a higher base price of $570.

  • Optional Features: Customers could add various optional features to their Model A, such as a rumble seat, spare tire, or upgraded upholstery, which would increase the final cost.

  • Production Costs: The overall production costs for the Model A, including materials, labor, and manufacturing, also played a role in determining the retail price.


The Ford Model A was designed to be an affordable and practical car for the average American consumer, making it a popular choice during the economic hardships of the Great Depression.


Comparing the Model A to Other Cars of the Era


When compared to other cars available in 1930, the Ford Model A was relatively inexpensive. For example, the Chevrolet Series AD Universal had a base price of $495, while the Plymouth Model U had a starting price of $595. The Model A's affordability and reliability made it a popular choice for many families and businesses during the 1930s.


The Ford Model A's combination of affordability, practicality, and iconic design has made it a beloved classic car that continues to be admired and collected by enthusiasts today.

How many miles per gallon did a 1931 Ford Model A get?


The engine was an L-head 4-cylinder with a displacement of 201 cubic inches . This engine gave the car 40 horsepower. Typical fuel consumption was between 25 and 30 mpg using a Zenith one-barrel up-draft carburetor, with a top speed of around 65 mph.



How much did the Model A cost when it first came out?


Prices for the Model A ranged from US$385 for a roadster to US$1,400 for the town car. The engine was a water-cooled L-head inline four with a displacement of 201 cu in (3.3 L).



How much was a 1930 Model A new?


Only 13,710 such models were manufactured in 1930 and each one had a base price of $650. The 30-wire spokes on each wheel are painted to match the maroon body color. The 2,488-pound sedan rides on a 103.5-inch wheelbase supported by 4.75/5.00x19-inch white sidewall tires.



How much did a 1931 Ford Model A cost new?


The 1931 model year was the last for Ford's Model A. The final cars featured new radiator shells and, starting mid-year, optional laminated safety glass. Prices ranged from $490 for the standard coupe to $630 for the town sedan.



How much was $100 worth during the Great Depression?


$100 in 1930 is equivalent in purchasing power to about $1,437.17 in 2016, an increase of $1,337.17 over 86 years. The dollar had an average inflation rate of 3.15% per year between 1930 and 2016, producing a cumulative price increase of 1,337.17%.



How much is a 1930 Model A worth today?


Vehicle Valuation Analysis

BodystylesMedian Sale
Coupe$18,425
Delivery Roadster$30,250
Deluxe Coupe$19,938
Fordor Sedan$17,875



How much did a brand new car cost in the 1930s?


In 1931, the average price of a new car was $640. The top three automakers were General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Chrysler—still familiar names in the auto industry!



How much was a gallon of gas in 1930?


Throughout the 1920s, gas prices averaged 21 to 30 cents per gallon. As the Depression deepened, demand fell and competition for customers intensified. By 1930, prices were down to 20 cents per gallon and would continue to fall for the next decade. In many areas, gas prices were less than 10 cents a gallon.



How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1930?


$0.20
Gas Prices in the U.S. Throughout History

YearNational Average Gas Price (Dollars/Gallon) ThenNational Average Gas Price (Dollars/Gallon) In 2022 Dollars
1930$0.20$3.40
1931$0.17$3.17
1932$0.18$3.74
1933$0.18$4.13



What did a 1932 Ford cost new?


The car that sold new for $485 in 1932 now commands a retail price as high as $119,000, which turns the term "retained value" on its head.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.