1907 Ford Model R Runabout

The Tupelo Automobile Museum Auction|27 April 2019, 10:00 CDT|The Tupelo Automobile Museum

1907 Ford Model R Runabout
Engine no. 1758

149ci L-Head Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
Singe Updraft Carburetor
18bhp
2-Speed Planetary Transmission
Front Transverse Leaf Sprung and Rear Elliptically Sprung Solid Axles
2-Wheel Mechanical Brakes

*Former part of the William Towe Collection
*Plenty of fine patina and character
*Complete with top
*A wonderful example of one of Ford's early creations

THE FORD MODEL R

Although ambitious with its estimation of selling 10,000 Model N cars each year, the N was a huge sales success with over 7,000 delivered in a production run bridging 1906-1908. After the first flurry of sales, it was clear that the 'knocked down' basic Model N had a concept that was possibly too spartan and the consumers desired something a little more than that. The solution was the Model R. At $750, it cost 50% more than its little brother, and while mechanically much was shared, its presence was enhanced by larger 30 inch wheels, a more imposing body with more commodious seats, and a rounded 'beetle back' tail, ideal for strapping a spare tire or two to. It also had scalloped front wings leading to running boards and in standard form alone oil lamps to side and rear, and a brass horn were provided. Color choices were limited to dark Brewster Green or Carmine red, which could be matched to Brewster Green running gear or offset with cream.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This sporting Model R Ford was once part of the substantial William Towe collection of antique automobiles. Forced to sell his entire holdings after falling into bankruptcy, roughly 230 cars were auctioned off in 1997.

Viewed today, the car has the appearance of a sympathetic restoration or a basically sound example of this model. It would seem to retain some period upholstery, its seat squabs showing considerable age. The bodywork wears classic black paint, fitting of a Ford of this period, and 'balloon' white wall tires. The brass appears with good luster and more remarkably, a full leather top accompanies the vehicle. The fine patina gives this Ford delightful character and will be a fine addition to any collection of early motorcars.

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact customer services.
Buyers Premium and Charges
Please Note the Buyer's Premium for this auction is as follows:
The final bid (hammer) price of each lot will be subject to a buyer's premium. For MOTOR VEHICLE property the premium is 12% on the first $250,000 of the bid price and 10% on any amount of the bid price exceeding $250,000.
For AUTOMOBILIA and other non-motor vehicle property, the premium is 27.5% on the first $3,000 of the bid price, 25% of the amount exceeding $3,000, up to and including $400,000, 20% of the amount exceeding $400,000, up to and including $4,000,000, and 13.9% on any amount exceeding $4,000,000.
Buyers' Obligations
ALL BIDDERS MUST AGREE THAT THEY HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BONHAMS' CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM, AND AGREE TO PAY THE BUYER'S PREMIUM AND ANY OTHER CHARGES MENTIONED IN THE NOTICE TO BIDDERS. THIS AFFECTS THE BIDDERS LEGAL RIGHTS.
If you have any questions about the Conditions of Sale, please contact your nearest client services team.
From 28 June 2025, the import into the EU of non-EU property of a certain age (and in some categories above a certain value) is subject to additional requirements. Under the relevant EU Regulation, it is the Buyer's sole responsibility to assess whether any Lot meets the criteria for import into the EU. The refusal of any required Import License or Importer Statement, or any delay in obtaining such License or Statement shall not give rise to the rescission or cancelation of any Sale, nor allow any delay in making full payment for the Lot.
Payment Notices
Payment for purchases may be made in or by (a) cash, (b) cashier's check or money order, (c) personal check with approved credit drawn on a U.S. bank, (d) wire transfer or other immediate bank transfer, or (e) Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover credit or charge card for returning clients only. Please note that only non-motor vehicle lots' may be paid for by credit card and cash, and the amount of cash notes and cash equivalents that can be accepted from a given purchaser may be limited. Credit cards may not be used to pay for motorcar purchases.
Shipping Notices
For information and estimates on domestic and international shipping as well as export licences please contact [email protected].
Special Car Dealer Notices
, number 47502960100
- Automobilia
- Cars