Highlights
- Rare factory right-hand drive model
- Desirable six-seater Open Tourer
- Very original and true to its 1915 specifications including the original “high” cylinder head, carburettor and radiator
- Acquired from Neil Tuckett - Europe’s pre-eminent Model T expert
- Presented in pleasingly patinated “oily rag” condition
The Appeal
Commonly cited as one of the most historically significant vehicles of all time, the Ford Model T represented a quantum leap in automobile engineering and manufacture and cemented Ford’s reputation for capable cars.
Here we have a rare and desirable factory right-hand drive six-seater Open Tourer dating from 1915. The idea of owning and driving a car that’s well past its hundredth birthday is quite staggering to us, let alone one that continues to work so well with its original mechanical components. The vendor has driven this car in several Model T endurance events and they report that it remains in great running order.
Acquired by the present owner in 2009 from renowned Model T specialist Neil Tucket, “Pippa” - as this Ford is affectionately known - is believed to have resided in the St Albans area for much of its early life and was rumoured to have possibly been used to transport officers to the front lines during the First World War as many of these Model Ts did. As one of the last ‘brass cars’ with gas side lamps, this is a highly desirable and very special vehicle that we’re sure will find favour amongst enthusiasts.
If you’re looking to add a Model T to your collection, we can certainly recommend this one.
The History and Paperwork
- Factory right-hand drive Open Tourer
- Acquired by the vendor in 2009 from Neil Tuckett - Europe’s pre-eminent Model T expert
- Rumoured to have possibly been used to transport officers to the front lines during the First World War
- Accompanied by a collection of period books on how to drive the model T as well as several history books
- A signed copy of History of ‘The English Model T Ford’ book by Neil Tuckett is included
- Believed to have resided in the St Albans area during its early life
- Veteran Car Club of Great Britain Certificate of Date
- V5C present
- Used regularly in present ownership and has been driven on several Model T endurance runs
The Interior
- Buttoned leather upholstery
- Seating for six
- Gentle age-commensurate wear
While sparse by today’s standards, a motor car of any sort was very much a luxury in 1915 and the interior of this model T reflects that. Opulently trimmed in buttoned leather, the seats are more akin to a sofa than they are to modern car seats and when it comes to comfort they’re all the better for it.
On the floor, we find wooden planking and in the rear, practical coconut matting. There isn’t much in the way of a dashboard as such. Certainly no instruments or switchgear are to be found, besides the controls you need to operate the vehicle. Speaking of the controls, you’ll no doubt be aware that driving a Model T is anything but ordinary, so we recommend a thorough read of those aforementioned manuals and a little practice before you hit the open road…
Besides some nice patina that you’d expect to see on a car celebrating its 108th Birthday, there’s little in the way of heavy wear. We didn’t spot any later modifications and behind the wheel you really do feel as if you’ve travelled back in time. We note there’s a discreet Tuckett late on the dashboard which is a nice touch.
The Exterior
- Richly patinated
- The roof as retrimmed during the 1980s
- Retains its original brass features
- Comes with side screens and roof cover
We’re pleased that this Ford has been preserved rather than restored and the ‘oily rag’ finish really suits a car of this vintage in our opinion. Naturally there are some scars, some paint loss and general wear, all of which is immensely characterful and we simply adore the way it looks. The bodywork is actually really straight and we couldn’t see any notable damage which is quite remarkable for a car so old.
To mark its centenary, a small message has been hand painted on the front of the bulkhead, which the vendor says could be removed if desired as it has been applied using water-based paint. We rather like it and a hundredth birthday is definitely worth celebrating!
All of its brass features remain in lovely order with some nice patination accrued over the years. The roof fabric was replaced during the 80s as the original had deteriorated beyond the point of being serviceable. The roof now has some age to it and fits in perfectly with the remainder of the car. The glass presents well as does all the badging. The car sits upon twelve spoke wheels, all of which look great.
It’s supplied with an original high lift Jack, original model T Tools in oak case, original luggage rack that goes on a running board, as well as a selection of other original service tools.
The Mechanics
- 2.9-litre four-cylinder engine
- Retains its original “high” cylinder head
- Original carburettor dated December 1914
- Correct date stamps on the engine and gearbox
- The original radiator carries a repair which is stamped as 1916
- Has proved reliable and usable during the vendor’s ownership
The Model T owes much of its success to the fact that it worked really well. It was one of the first cars you could buy that proved rugged and mendable, with the ability to source mass produced spare components. Mechanically, this 1915 example remains impressively original with age appropriate date stamps on all major mechanical components.
We’re informed that the engine runs well, keeps cool and provides adequate performance. The vendor has successfully participated in several Model T endurance runs and found the car to be reliable and enjoyable to drive.
Summary
This is a really fine motor car, in lovely cosmetic and mechanical order.
Every car enthusiast should experience a Model T Ford at some point and what better way to engage with this most historically important of automobiles than to actually own a cherished original example?
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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