What was the last year for the brass Model T?
The Ford Model T, often referred to as the "Tin Lizzie," is one of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history. Known for its affordability and revolutionary assembly line production, the Model T underwent several design changes during its production run. One of the most notable eras of the Model T was the "brass era," characterized by its brass radiator and fittings. But when did this era come to an end? Let’s dive into the details.
The Brass Era of the Model T
The brass era of the Model T refers to the early years of its production, when the car featured prominent brass components, including the radiator, headlamps, and other fittings. These brass elements gave the car a distinctive and elegant appearance, making it stand out during its time.
The brass Model T was produced from its introduction in 1908 until 1916. By 1917, Ford began transitioning to a more utilitarian design, replacing the brass components with painted steel. This change was driven by the need to reduce production costs and streamline manufacturing as the Model T became increasingly popular and mass production ramped up.
Why Did the Brass Era End?
Several factors contributed to the end of the brass era for the Model T:
- Cost Efficiency: Brass was more expensive to produce and maintain compared to steel. As Ford aimed to make the Model T affordable for the average American, switching to steel helped reduce costs.
- Durability: Steel components were more durable and required less maintenance than brass, making them more practical for everyday use.
- Mass Production: The assembly line revolutionized car manufacturing, and using steel allowed for faster and more efficient production processes.
The Legacy of the Brass Model T
Although the brass era ended in 1916, these early Model Ts remain highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Their distinctive design and historical significance make them a symbol of the early automotive industry and a testament to Henry Ford's vision of making cars accessible to the masses.
Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply curious about automotive history, the brass Model T represents a fascinating chapter in the evolution of the automobile. Its legacy continues to inspire admiration and appreciation for the ingenuity of early car manufacturing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Model Ts so cheap?
The Model T was manufactured on the Ford Motor Company's moving assembly line at Ford's revolutionary Highland Park Plant. Due to the mass production of the vehicle, Ford Motor Company could sell the vehicle for between $260 and $850 as Henry Ford passed production savings on to his customers.
What was the best year for the Model T?
1923
1923 was the Model T's best year and is still today the highest annual production figure ever achieved by a single model with 2,011,125 units produced in a single year!
How much is a 1923 Model T?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $10,650 for a 1923 Ford Model T in good condition with average spec.
What was the last year for the brass radiator on the Model T Ford?
1916
1915 was the last year the cars were produced with “full brass.” It was explained that in 1916, the factory used any brass parts remaining. So some 1916 models may have more brass than others. Polishing the brass on these earlier models turned out to be time-consuming task, often taking 4-6 hours to complete!
Why did Fords not have brass?
World War I was having affects on the availability of materials and Ford wanted to mass manufacture the cars which whittled away the brass use in that time frame. The 1917 cars were different in a lot of ways besides the lower use of brass.
How much horsepower did the Model T have in 1923?
20 horsepower
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.
How much did a Model T cost in 1922?
Price and production
| Year | Production | Price for Runabout |
|---|---|---|
| 1922 | 1,301,067 | $319 |
| 1923 | 2,011,125 | $364 |
| 1924 | 1,922,048 | $265 |
| 1925 | 1,911,705 | $260 |
What would a Model T be worth today?
Q: What is the average sale price of a Ford Model T? A: The average price of a Ford Model T is $16,235.
How much is a Model T worth today?
A: The average price of a Ford Model T is $16,252.
Why were all Ford's black?
Ford used black because it was a more durable paint than pigmented paints. it wasnt till Dupont introduced the first modern colored paint that was as durable as black in the mid 1920`s.
