How much is a 1928 model Ford worth?
The value of a 1928 Ford Model A varies widely, with rough projects under $5,000 and top-condition, concours-quality cars often $60,000 or more. Most well-preserved, driver-ready examples fall in the $15,000–$40,000 range, depending on body style and originality.
In the late 1920s, Ford’s Model A helped the company rebound after the Model T era, and today collectors prize these cars for their styling, simplicity, and historical significance. Pricing now hinges on condition, originality, body style, provenance, and how much work a buyer is willing to undertake to restore or maintain the car.
How much a 1928 Model A is worth today
Below are general market ranges to help assess value based on overall condition and finish. These figures reflect current price guides and recent auction results, but actual prices can vary by region, seller, and the car’s specific story.
- Concours/restoration-quality or exceptionally original: typically about $60,000–$100,000+, with some rare examples or impeccably restored models exceeding $100,000.
- Excellent to very good driver: roughly $25,000–$50,000, depending on body style and provenance.
- Good to very good condition (solid driver or easy restoration): about $15,000–$25,000.
- Fair condition or project/restoration opportunity: generally $5,000–$15,000.
The ranges above are intended as a snapshot of the current market and will shift with trends, restoration quality, and the appeal of particular body styles. Always verify using multiple sources and current listings.
Common 1928 Model A body styles and typical price windows
Different body styles command different prices based on demand and rarity. The following ranges illustrate what buyers typically see in the market for key configurations.
- Roadster: commonly $25,000–$50,000 depending on cosmetic condition and mechanical reliability.
- Coupe: often $20,000–$40,000 for solid, presentable examples.
- Fordor Sedan (four-door): roughly $18,000–$32,000 for well-presented cars with good history.
- Victoria/Convertible (rare, open-top variants): around $30,000–$60,000 or more for well-restored or highly original examples.
- Pickup/Business or Panel variants: typically $15,000–$30,000 depending on drivability and restoration level.
As with any classic, provenance matters. Cars with matching numbers, documented histories, and documented restoration work—or those with rare factory options—can push higher within these ranges.
Factors that influence value
Multiple elements shape the final asking price and market competitiveness. The list below highlights the key drivers buyers and sellers weigh when valuing a 1928 Model A.
- Condition and quality of restoration: meticulous, factory-correct work typically commands higher prices.
- Originality vs. period-correct modifications: factory-original parts and matching chassis/engine numbers are prized; modern upgrades may limit top-dollar potential for strict collectors.
- Body style rarity and demand: some variants are more sought-after and thus more expensive.
- Provenance and documentation: documented restoration histories, prior ownership, and authenticity papers add value.
- Mechanical reliability and drivability: cars that run smoothly and require minimal ongoing work are more attractive to buyers.
- Geographic availability and market trends: regional demand can push prices up or down.
Understanding these factors helps you interpret current prices and assess whether a particular Model A represents a fair value or a potential restoration project.
How to verify current value before buying or selling
Before making a decision, consult reliable sources and recent market activity to triangulate a fair price for a specific car.
- Check multiple price guides (Hagerty Price Guide, Hemmings, NADA Classics) for current valuation bands by body style and condition.
- Review recent auction results from major houses and regional sales to gauge real-world bidding.
- Assess the car’s condition against a professional appraisal, ideally from a classic-car restorer or certified appraiser.
- Inspect for originality: verify engine numbers, chassis numbers, and documentation of any restorations.
- Consider future maintenance costs and parts availability for the specific variant.
Armed with these checks, buyers can set realistic expectations, and sellers can price competitively in a market known for regional variation and shifting collector interest.
Summary
The 1928 Ford Model A remains a popular entry point into collector car ownership, with values spanning a broad spectrum—from affordable project cars to coveted, concours-quality machines. While most well-presented examples fall in the $15,000–$40,000 range, exceptional or rare configurations can fetch significantly more. Always ground your negotiations in current price guides and recent auction data, and consider condition, originality, and provenance as the primary value levers.
Summary: For anyone curious about the value of a 1928 Ford Model A, expect a wide band of prices driven by condition, body style, and historical documentation. Use multiple sources, verify originality, and beware of market volatility as you assess a potential purchase or sale.
