
Toby Wilson
Head of Department
LOT 440
1930 Ford 3.3-Litre Roadster with Dickey Registration no. BF 5790 Chassis no. CA65201
Replacement for the ubiquitous Ford Model T, the Model A went on sale in December 1927. A more complex car than its predecessor, the 'A' was also more powerful, its four-cylinder sidevalve engine producing 40bhp - double the output of the T - which was good enough for a top speed of 65mph. A three-speed sliding gear transmission replaced the T's planetary gears; there was coil-and-battery instead of magneto ignition; and at last there was a brake for each wheel. The T's ungainly styling was abandoned, and the eagerly awaited Model A's up-to-the-minute looks, choice of colours and, needless to say, competitive pricing helped ensure its success. After two years in production the Model A was face-lifted for 1930, receiving wider tyres on smaller-diameter (19") wheels and being mildly restyled with wider mudguards to achieve a lower, more modern look. Model A sales peaked in 1929 when more than 1.4 million were sold, and production continued until the V8's arrival in 1932 saw Ford's four-cylinder car renamed 'Model B'.
This Canadian delivered, original right-hand drive Model A was purchased by the enthusiast vendor in February 2019. Formerly maintained by specialists Belcher Engineering, the car benefits from a cylinder block repair and is running and driving well. An alternator and 12-volt electrics are sensible upgrades. Ideal for VSCC trials and Vintage Hot Rod Association events, the car is offered with sundry bills and a V5C document.
Vendor Score Total: 65 /100
Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.
Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well
EXTERIOR TOTAL: 14 /25
Body Work: 3
Paint: 2
Glass: 3
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 3
Wheels/Tyres: 3
RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 16 /20
Gearbox/Clutch: 4
Axles: 4
Suspension: 4
Brakes: 4
INTERIOR TOTAL: 12 /20
Seats: 3
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 3
Headlining: 3
Trim: 3
ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 6 /10
Main components: 3
Ancillary components: 3
ENGINE TOTAL: 14 /20
Starting: 4
Running: 4
Under Bonnet: 3
Mechanical components: 3
Car History File: 3







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