1906 Ford Model N Runabout

01

Artifact Overview

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.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Automobile

Date Made

1906

Location

at Henry Ford Museum in Driving America

Object ID

85.115.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

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

Color

Dark green
Black (Color)
Red

Dimensions

Height: 63.25 in
Length: 115 in
Wheelbase: 84 in
Diameter: 18 in (Wheel Diameter)
Diameter: 3.75 in (Bore)
Length: 3.375 in (Stroke)

Specifications

Make & Model: 1906 Ford Model N runabout
Maker: Ford Motor Company, Detroit, Michigan
Engine: inline-4, L-head valves, 149 cubic inches
Transmission: 2-speed manual
Height: 64 inches (with top down)
Wheelbase: 84 inches
Width: 63.5 inches
Overall length: 115 inches
Weight: 1050 pounds
Horsepower: 15
Pounds per horsepower: 70
Price: $500
Average 1906 wage: $523 per year
Time you'd work to buy this car: about 1 year