Ford cars

1896 Ford Quadricycle Runabout, First Car Built by Henry Ford

Automobile

The Quadricycle was Henry Ford's first attempt to build a gasoline-powered automobile. It utilized commonly available materials: angle iron for the frame, a leather belt and chain drive for the transmission, and a buggy seat. Ford had to devise his own ignition system. He sold his Quadricycle for $200, then used the money to build his second car.

Use default description of artifact

1906 Ford Model N Runabout

Automobile

Two-seater runabouts like this 1906 Ford Model N were favored by middle-class Americans who could afford one. They were fast and rugged. Most runabouts featured one- or two-cylinder engines and bicycle-style chain drives. But this Ford Model N offered four cylinders and a shaft drive, plus it cost less. At $500, it became the bestselling car in America.

Use default description of artifact

1907 Ford Model K Touring Car

Automobile

Introduced in 1906, the Model K moved Ford Motor Company into the high-price market -- something Henry Ford didn't like. The six-cylinder, $2,500 Model K cost five times as much as Ford's four-cylinder Model N. Production of the Model K ended in 1908 with the introduction of the Model T. Affordable cars for the mass market were Ford's future.

Use default description of artifact

1919 Ford Model T Coupe, Henry Ford's Personal Car

Automobile

Henry Ford was particularly fond of this Model T -- so much so that he drove it for ten years. The car was rebuilt periodically with new parts, as when the engine and chassis were replaced in 1927. Special features include a "rain vision" green glass visor, gray-green striped velour upholstery, and a tool and luggage compartment in the rear deck.

Use default description of artifact