1903 Ford Model A Runabout

01

Artifact Overview

After his first two attempts at commercial automobile manufacturing failed, Henry Ford found success with Ford Motor Company, established in 1903. The new company's first product, the Model A, was conventional by the standards of the day. It featured a two-cylinder engine mounted under the seat and rear wheels driven by a chain.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Automobile

Date Made

1903

Location

at Henry Ford Museum in Driving America

Object ID

00.136.137

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Ford Motor Company.

Material

Metal
Wood (Plant material)
Leather
Brass (Alloy)
Rubber (Material)

Color

Red
Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 57 in
Width: 65 in
Length: 103 in

Inscriptions

Mounting pedals: FORD Flywheel number: 475

Specifications

Make & Model: 1903 Ford Model A runabout
Maker: Ford Motor Company, Detroit, Michigan
Engine: horizontally opposed 2, L-head valves, 100 cubic inches
Transmission: 2-speed manual
Height: 57 inches
Width: 65 inches
Wheelbase: 72 inches
Overall length: 103 inches
Weight: 1250 pounds
Horsepower: 8
Pounds per horsepower: 156.3
Price: $850
Average 1903 wage: $489
Time you'd work to buy this car: about 1 year, 9 months