What years did Ford make the Model A?
The Model A was produced in two distinct eras in Ford’s history: the original early-1900s model and the better-known postwar car of the late 1920s. In short, Ford built two separate Model A cars: one from 1903 to 1904, and a second from 1927 to 1931 (with some shipments into 1932 in certain markets).
Two eras of the Model A
To understand the question fully, it helps to break the history into the two periods when Ford used the Model A name. Each period represents a different vehicle and era for the company.
Model A (1903–1904)
Overview of the first Model A, Ford’s initial use of the name, which appeared in the early years of the company’s production.
- Model A (1903–1904): Ford’s first car to bear the Model A name, produced from late 1903 into 1904.
The 1903–1904 Model A marked Ford’s early experimentation with naming and design, laying groundwork for later models during a formative period of the company’s history.
Model A (1927–1931)
Overview of the second, more famous Model A, which followed the Model T and helped Ford modernize its lineup in the late 1920s.
- Model A (1927–1931): Replaced the Model T; launched in December 1927 and produced through 1931, with some shipments into 1932 in certain markets.
The 1927–1931 Model A is remembered for bringing more modern styling and features to Ford’s lineup and for signaling a new era after the long dominance of the Model T.
Summary
Ford’s Model A exists in two separate chapters: the original 1903–1904 car and the 1927–1931 model that became a landmark in Ford’s postwar lineup. Taken together, these periods show how the same name carried two very different cars across almost three decades of automotive history.
Which came first, the Model T or the Model A?
The Ford Model T came first, with its first production run in 1908. The Model A came later in two different versions: the original 1903 Model A was the very first car produced by Ford, and the more well-known second-generation Model A replaced the Model T and debuted in late 1927.
- The first Model A (1903-1904): This was the first car produced by the Ford Motor Company, with sales starting in July 1903.
- The Model T (1908-1927): The first Model T rolled off the assembly line in September 1908 and is considered the first mass-produced and affordable automobile.
- The second Model A (1927-1931): This was a completely new design that was introduced as the successor to the Model T. It was first produced in October 1927 and publicly introduced in December 1927.
What year did Ford make the Model B?
1932
Chassis No. The Ford Model B debuted in 1932 as the replacement for the Model A. While Ford also launched its landmark V-8 engine that year, the Model B carried on with an improved version of the Model A's inline four-cylinder engine.
What is a Model A worth today?
The value of a Ford Model A depends on its year, condition, body style, and historical significance, with prices for common models in good condition typically ranging from about $13,000 to over $20,000. High-end, rare, or exceptionally well-maintained examples can sell for significantly more, sometimes reaching tens of thousands of dollars at auction, while poorly maintained or heavily modified cars might only be worth a few thousand. For a 1928 model, a good condition car is around $15,700, while a 1929 model in similar condition averages about $16,708.
Factors that influence value
- Condition: A car in excellent running and visual condition will be worth much more than one in need of extensive repairs.
- Body Style: Some body styles, like the phaeton or roadster, can command higher prices than common sedans.
- Originality: Cars that are highly original or have been restored to factory-correct specifications are often more valuable than heavily modified "street rod" versions.
- History: A car with a documented and well-maintained history, especially if it's a significant or rare model, can increase its value.
- Market Demand: While demand for Model A's has been steady, the market can be influenced by collector trends and overall economic conditions.
Example price ranges (for 1928-1931 common models)
| Condition | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Poor | \$2,500–\$6,000+ |
| Average (Good) | \$13,000–\$17,000+ |
| Excellent | \$20,000–\$30,000+ |
| Pristine/Rare | \$30,000+ (can reach over \$85,000 for exceptional examples at auction) |
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How much did a Model A cost originally?
The car came as a two-seater runabout for $800 (equivalent to $28,000 in 2024) or the $900 four-seater tonneau model with an option to add a top. The horizontal-mounted flat-2, situated amidships of the car, produced 8 hp (6 kW).
