Ford T
In 1909, Ford introduced the Model T. With a price tag of 450 dollars, it fit the working man's budget and was soon selling by the thousands. That availability and low price encouraged enthusiasts to convert the basic Model T into something much more exciting, so by 1913 a large aftermarket had developed, offering a wide range of speed parts and custom accessories for the black base Model T. The heart of every Speedster was a souped-up version of the base engine with 20 hp side valves, and the target power output was at least 40 hp. The base version featured a planed head to increase the compression ratio, combined with lightweight aluminum pistons. Other improvements included stronger, balanced crankshafts, larger valves, and performance-oriented camshafts. The standard Model T body was replaced by a Speedster body complete with a monocle windshield.
In 1909, Ford introduced the Model T. At $450, it fit the working man's budget, and it quickly sold by the thousands. That availability and low price encouraged enthusiasts to modify the basic Model T transportation into something much more exciting, so that by 1913, a large "aftermarket" had developed, offering a wide variety of "speed parts" and custom accessories for the basic black Model T.
The heart of each Speedster was a warmed-over version of the base 20-horsepower side-valve engine, with a target output of at least 40 horsepower. The base version featured a planed head to increase the compression ratio, coupled with lightweight aluminum pistons. Other advances included stronger, balanced crankshafts, larger valves, and performance camshafts. The standard Model T bodywork was replaced with a Speedster body complete with a "monocle" windshield. Some cars retained the standard Ford fenders, while others omitted them altogether. The heavy wooden wheels were replaced with strong, lightweight wire wheels.
A complete kit, consisting of radiator, hood, floorboards, rear gas tank, and rudimentary bodywork could be purchased for about US$100. The Speedster body was not just for looks: it made the Model T faster because it was lighter and had a smaller frontal area. These changes alone increased top speed by 10 to 15 miles per hour.
The lighter bodywork usually required the removal of a leaf from each spring, and the steering column had to be lowered to accommodate the sporty driving position closer to the ground. Because the early Speedsters were "hot rods" rather than original factory-built sports cars, there are far fewer restrictions on the sourcing of the parts needed to make a modern reconstruction.
This T-Ford presented here is still a beautiful car with the sharp nose and the spoke wheels. The engine is stuck and does not run anymore at the moment. Furthermore it still looks beautiful with two leather seats, 4 headlights and the typical transverse leaf spring. Dutch papers.