How much horsepower did the 1929 Ford Model A have?
The 1929 Ford Model A produced about 40 horsepower from its 201 cubic inch inline-four engine.
This figure comes from Ford’s standard power rating for the era, which used SAE gross measurements. The Model A’s output reflected the technology and design choices of late-1920s gasoline engines, delivering modest acceleration and comfortable cruising for its time.
Engine and horsepower details
To understand where the horsepower figure comes from, it helps to look at the key engine specifications and how power was rated in 1929.
- Engine type and displacement: 201 cubic inches (3.3 liters) inline-four
- Valve configuration: side-valve (flathead) design
- Power rating: 40 horsepower (SAE gross)
- Transmission: 3-speed manual
These specifications collectively defined the Model A’s performance envelope and reflect the automotive standards of its era. The 40 hp rating was typical for affordable family cars of the late 1920s, balancing reliability, cost, and drivability.
Historical context and measurement standards
How horsepower was measured then vs. today
During the Model A era, horsepower was reported using SAE gross standards, which often yielded higher numbers than modern net ratings that subtract accessory loads. Today’s horsepower figures for classic cars are sometimes listed differently, but 40 hp is the widely cited figure for the 1929 Model A under its original SAE gross rating.
Summary
The 1929 Ford Model A carried approximately 40 horsepower from its 201 cu in inline-four, a figure that reflected the technology and measurement practices of its time and supported the car’s practical, mass-market appeal in the late 1920s.
