Lot 309 - 1914 Ford Model T Torpedo
| Lot Number | 309 |
| Registration | AB 4102 |
| Chassis Number | 619981 |
| Engine Number | 619981 |
| Result | Sold - £15,344 |
- Long previous family ownership
- Rare and correct Torpedo model
Ford restyled the Model T for 1911, giving it a new radiator, fenders and wheels. Its body now used steel panels over a wood framework, as opposed to earlier all wood construction. Whereas cars were previously offered in red, grey, or green, for 1911 dark blue was selected as a standard colour (any colour as long as it's black still lay in the future).
Some body styles, like the coupé, were phased out, but two new ones were offered, the torpedo runabout and the open runabout. These two differed from the others by having curved fenders, a longer hood, lower seating, and a round 16 gallon fuel tank on the rear deck. The torpedo runabout had doors, while the open runabout did not. The late Les Henry, a renowned Model T historian, wrote that these runabouts had undoubtedly the best performance and greatest speed of all Model T Fords ever produced.
This fine example of this vintage car was purchased from the Model T specialist Tuckett Brothers last year. It can be said that this very correct 'Torpedo' appears to be one of 125 built in Manchester in 1914 and has matching engine and serial numbers. The car is in remarkable condition considering its advancing age and the present owner informs us the car was last used in the summer of this year. Contained within the history file accompanying this car are some photographs of the vehicle taken in the mid 1970s when it was used frequently for various shows in the South of England. The car has leather upholstery, a 3164cc engine, lights and drophead configuration which is fun on those days when one can put the roof down.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.