Loading

How much horsepower did the first Model A have?


The Ford Model A, introduced in 1927 as the successor to the iconic Model T, marked a significant step forward in automotive design and performance. It was a revolutionary vehicle for its time, offering improved features and capabilities that appealed to a growing market of car buyers. One of the most frequently asked questions about this classic car is: how much horsepower did it have?


The Horsepower of the First Model A


The first Ford Model A, produced in 1927 and sold as a 1928 model, was equipped with a 3.3-liter (201 cubic inches) inline-four engine. This engine delivered a modest but reliable 40 horsepower. While this may seem low by today’s standards, it was a significant improvement over the Model T, which only produced 20 horsepower. The increased power allowed the Model A to reach a top speed of approximately 65 mph, making it a practical and versatile vehicle for its time.


Why the Model A Was a Game-Changer


The Model A wasn’t just about horsepower—it was a complete redesign that addressed many of the shortcomings of the Model T. Here are some of the key improvements that made the Model A a standout vehicle:



  • Improved Engine Performance: The 40-horsepower engine provided better acceleration and higher top speeds, making the car more suitable for modern roads.

  • Four-Wheel Mechanical Brakes: Unlike the Model T, which relied on a transmission brake, the Model A featured brakes on all four wheels, greatly enhancing safety.

  • Modern Styling: The Model A introduced a more contemporary design with a sleeker body, a variety of color options, and a more comfortable interior.

  • Ease of Operation: The Model A featured a conventional clutch and gearshift, making it easier to drive compared to the Model T’s more complex controls.


The Legacy of the Model A


The Ford Model A was produced from 1927 to 1931, during which time over 4.8 million units were sold. Its combination of improved performance, modern features, and affordability made it a favorite among consumers and cemented its place in automotive history. Today, the Model A remains a beloved classic car, cherished by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.


In conclusion, the first Model A’s 40 horsepower may not seem like much compared to modern vehicles, but it was a significant leap forward in its era. This iconic car set the stage for future innovations in the automotive industry and remains a symbol of Ford’s commitment to progress and quality.


Frequently Asked Questions

What was the first 400 hp car?


Dubbed Super Marauder, a 430 cu in (7.0 L) V8 was rated at 400 hp (298 kW; 406 PS) making it the first mass-produced engine sold in the United States with an advertised 400 hp output.



How many miles per gallon did the Model A get?


Model A automobile
The drivetrain ended at the wheels with the final drive ratio of 3.77:1. On a typical Model A, this typically provided 25–30 miles per gallon, and speeds up to 65 miles per hour.



How much HP did a Model A have?


40 hp
The engine was a water-cooled L-head inline four with a displacement of 201 cu in (3.3 L). This engine provided 40 hp (30 kW; 41 PS). Top speed was around 65 mph (105 km/h).



What was the fastest car in 1930?


Fastest car of the 1930s: Duesenberg Model SJ
The baseline Model SJ maxed out at 140 mph. It even held the record until 1990 for the highest average speed over a 24-hour period.



How much horsepower did the 1903 Ford Model A have?


eight horsepower
- In July 1903, the first Ford Model A was produced. - The Model A was powered by a two-cylinder engine that produced eight horsepower. - The car was designed to be simple, reliable, and affordable, and was priced at $850.



How many miles per gallon does a Model A get?


Based on data from 13 vehicles, 214 fuel-ups and 17,677 miles of driving, the 1930 Ford Model A gets a combined Avg MPG of 12.95 with a 0.68 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 8 outliers (3.60%) removed.



What was the fastest a Model T could go?


The Model T's engine was a simple yet revolutionary four-stroke, four-cylinder design, with all four cylinders and a crankcase cast in a single block, producing 20 horsepower and reaching a top speed of 45 miles per hour. During the first few years of production, the engine was started by a hand crank.



How many miles per gallon did a 1923 Ford Model T get?


Based on data from 2 vehicles, 41 fuel-ups and 2,218 miles of driving, the 1923 Ford Model T gets a combined Avg MPG of 8.71 with a 0.79 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 2 outliers (4.65%) removed.



How fast did the first Model A go?


55 to 65 mph
While it still used a four cylinder, similar to the Model T, the Model A was more powerful and smooth and was capable of 55 to 65 mph. It came with Triplex shatterproof safety windshield and hydraulic shocks, both a first for Ford and unheard of in the low-priced field.



How much horsepower did the Model T have in 1923?


It produced 20 horsepower for a top speed of 45 mph. The engine was built in-unit with the Model T's novel planetary transmission.


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.