What is the old Ford car called?
The most iconic old Ford car is the Model T, introduced in 1908 and produced until 1927, widely known as the car that put America on wheels. It earned the nickname “Tin Lizzie.”
Beyond the Model T, Ford used the Model A designation for several early vehicles, including a 1903–1904 model and a later 1927–1931 revival, creating a layered history of Ford's early lineup.
Key early Ford models
These are the models most readers reference when discussing Ford's oldest cars.
- Ford Model T (1908–1927) — The mass-market car that transformed production and affordability; famously nicknamed “Tin Lizzie.”
- Ford Model A (1903–1904) — Ford’s first widely sold model in the United States, establishing mass production practices.
- Ford Model A (1927–1931) — A revival of the Model A name with a new chassis and features for its era.
While the Model T is the archetype of early Ford, the Model A naming shows how Ford built on its early successes with different eras and designs.
Why the Model T mattered
Here, we summarize the innovations and social impact that made the Model T decisive in automotive history.
- Mass production via the moving assembly line reduced costs and increased availability.
- Durability and ease of maintenance made it practical for a wide audience.
- Its affordability helped spur widespread car ownership and a new mobility era.
The Model T's legacy remains a touchstone in car history, even as Ford moved on to newer designs.
Additional context on Ford's model naming
Understanding that Ford reused the Model A name for two distinct eras helps avoid confusion for enthusiasts and historians alike.
In summary, when people reference “the old Ford car,” the Model T is usually meant, with the Model A lineage representing the brand's broader early history.
Summary
The Ford Model T is the iconic answer to the question. It defined early mass production and mobility, while Ford's older Model A titles mark earlier and later chapters in the brand's history.
What Ford cars are no longer made?
Ford has discontinued numerous car models in recent years, including sedans like the Focus, Fiesta, Fusion, and Taurus, as well as some SUVs like the Edge and Escape. These disconinuations are due to a shift in consumer preference towards SUVs and trucks, Ford's focus on electric vehicles, and a move to reallocate resources to more profitable and in-demand models.
Recently discontinued models
- Focus: Production ended in late 2025. It had previously been discontinued in the U.S. in 2018, but continued in Europe until now.
- Escape: Will be discontinued at the end of 2025.
- Edge: Was discontinued in 2024.
- Fiesta: Production ended.
- Fusion: Discontinued.
- Taurus: Discontinued.
- Transit Connect: Production ended after the 2023 model year.
Other discontinued models
C-MAX, Escort, Galaxy, Ka, Mondeo, S-MAX, and Scorpio.
Reasons for discontinuation
- Market trends: A significant number of consumers have shifted their preference from traditional cars to SUVs and trucks.
- Electrification: Ford is reallocating resources to develop electric and hybrid vehicles, which requires ending production of some internal combustion engine models.
- Profitability: The company is focusing on models that offer better profit margins.
What is the most iconic old Ford car?
Ford Mustang
Its popularity has persisted through numerous generations as both a street and race car. The Mustang remains ingrained in pop culture, having starred in many movies like Bullitt and Need for Speed.
What was the name of the old Ford car?
The Model T. The Model T is Ford's universal car that put the world on wheels. The Model T was introduced to the world in 1908. Henry Ford wanted the Model T to be affordable, simple to operate, and durable.
What was a 1970 Ford called?
The Ford Maverick is a compact car manufactured and marketed by Ford for model years 1970–1977 in the United States, originally as a two-door sedan employing a rear-wheel drive platform original to the 1960 Falcon—and subsequently as a four-door sedan on the same platform.
