Oldest surviving Ford Model A returns home
A unit of the Ford Model A, built in 1903 and considered likely to be the oldest surviving Ford vehicle, returns to the company’s custody in time to mark the ongoing year-long celebrations of the Ford Motor Company’s 110th anniversary and the 150th birthday of founder Henry Ford.
The first of two models that bore the name, the 1903 Model A played a pivotal role in keeping the company afloat. With less than US$250 left in its cash balance, Ford received a much-needed cash injection of US$1,320 after picking up one full payment and two deposits for three units of the Model A.
Only one unit of that original trio of cars survives till today and Ford Motor Company Executive Chairman Bill Ford was at the RM Auctions at Hershey, Pennsylvania, to successfully bid for it during the auction’s proceedings.
The said car was Car No 3, Chassis No 30, built as a Rear Entry Tonneau variant painted red, and it was recently unveiled to employees of the company by Bill Ford himself.
“The Model A helped keep our company going during a difficult time and enabled my great-grandfather to continue pursuing his vision of putting the world on wheels,” said Bill Ford.
Malaysian enthusiasts can look forward to viewing the Ford Model A upclose themselves later this year, as Ford has announced that they will be sending a unit (likely not the same one as above) our way for the KL International Motor Show 2013. The company had earlier confirmed that a new model will be launched there and showcased alongside its line-up of global ‘One Ford’ vehicles.
KON
Pictures: Official Ford release.
