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How much did a 1930 model cost new?

In the early 1930s, the cost of a new car was a significant financial consideration for many Americans. The Great Depression had taken a toll on the economy, and the average consumer had to carefully weigh their purchasing decisions. However, the automotive industry continued to evolve, offering a range of models at various price points to meet the needs of different consumers.


The Typical Cost of a 1930 Model Car


The cost of a 1930 model car varied depending on the make, model, and features. On average, a new car in 1930 would have cost between $500 and $1,000. This was a substantial sum at the time, as the average annual income in the United States was around $1,970.


The most affordable cars of the era were typically smaller, more basic models, such as the Ford Model A or the Chevrolet Series 490. These cars were designed for practicality and affordability, with prices starting around $500. On the other end of the spectrum, luxury models from manufacturers like Cadillac or Packard could cost upwards of $3,000 or more.


Factors Influencing the Cost of a 1930 Model Car


Several factors contributed to the cost of a 1930 model car, including:



  • Brand and Model: Luxury and high-end brands, such as Cadillac and Packard, commanded higher prices than more affordable models from Ford or Chevrolet.

  • Engine Size and Power: Larger, more powerful engines typically cost more than smaller, less powerful ones.

  • Features and Amenities: Cars with additional features, such as power windows, leather upholstery, or advanced sound systems, were more expensive than basic models.

  • Manufacturing Costs: The cost of materials, labor, and production processes also influenced the final price of a car.


It's important to note that the cost of a 1930 model car was a significant investment for many Americans at the time, and the decision to purchase a new vehicle was not one to be taken lightly.

How much did a gallon of milk cost in the 1920s?


In the Roaring '20s, milk was 35¢ or so per gallon. But when the Great Depression hit in 1929, fewer people could afford milk and dairy farmers still had a lot of milk to sell. The price dropped from 35¢ per gallon to 26¢ per gallon.



How much did a Model T cost in 1923?


Price and production

YearProductionPrice for Runabout
1920463,451$395
1921971,610$325
19221,301,067$319
19232,011,125$364



What was the top speed of the Deuce Coupe?


Using the relative strength of its 65-horsepower "cast-iron wonder" V8, a stock-off-the-showroom floor 1932 Ford Coupe had a top speed of 78 miles per hour and significantly better acceleration than the typical car of its era.



How much did a 1929 Ford Model A cost new?


The two-millionth Model A was constructed on July 24, 1929. A million automobiles were produced in less than six months by the Ford Motor Company—an unbelievable number that put vehicles on the road nationwide. Original prices for the Model A ranged from $385 to $1,400 for the high-end Town Car.



What would a Model T cost in today's dollars?


Wild but true: In 1925, a Ford Model T cost $260, or ~$4,400 in today's dollars. The avg new car today costs ~$48,000.



How much did a 1932 Ford coupe cost when new?


Customers could purchase a V8-powered Model 18 roadster for as little as $410, and a Tudor (two-door) sedan, the most popular body type, was just $450. As we noted earlier, the coupe, an upscale body configuration, cost $485.



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 a 1930 Ford model cost new?


The range of body styles ran from the Tudor at US$500 (in grey, green, or black) ($8,872 in 2023 dollars) to the town car with a dual cowl at US$1,200 ($21,293 in 2023 dollars). In March 1930, Model A sales hit three million, and there were nine body styles available.



How much was a brand new car in 1930?


The average price for a new car in 1930 was between $400-$600 😳 Now almost 100 years later, the average price for a new car is between $40,000 - $50,000 🤯 Using the same math, what you could buy for $1 in 1930, now costs $100 💵



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.


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.