Classic Auto Mall

6180 Morgantown Road, Morgantown, PA 19543
4.7
4.7 out of 5 stars

Used 1923 Ford Model T

99,999 miles
For Sale:$17,000

$2,000(-10.5%)price drop

Estimated payment:$385/mo.
$0 trade-in, 10% down payment, 48 months, Great credit score

Value ChartA visual chart indicating the fair price range is between $10,300 and $12,100, while the current price is $17,000.$10,300 - $12,100$17,000
  • Priced at $17,000, this vehicle is $4,900 above the high end of its fair market value of $12,100.

  • The current fair market price range is between $10,300 to $12,100.

  • It has 99,999 miles, which is 78,999 (376%) above the median mileage of 21,000.

Note: This is an estimate based on a variety of factors (experimental feature). It is intended to provide a fair market value range to help guide your buying decision.

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  • Wagon
  • Condition
    Used
  • Mileage
    99,999miles
  • Transmission
    2 Speed Planetary
  • Exterior Color
    Black
  • Interior Color
    Black
  • VIN
    -

Engine

177ci L-Head I4

Message from the seller

1923 Ford Model T Runabout  Ford used the term runabout to describe 1 seater for 2 people right after production of what we now call mother inlaw runabouts.  The 1909-1912 cars with the mother inlaw seat were labeled roadsters in the USA catalogs, while the cars that only had a front seat were called runabouts, (torpedo or open).  From 1913 on, the two passenger car was called a runabout by Ford sales literature.  Thx to mtfca.com   For consignment, a 1923 Ford Model T runabout, miles unknown, but what is known is that the frame off restoration was done at Petty's Garage.  As in Richard Petty.  As in, NASCAR legend, Richard Petty.  And, as it turns out, Richard personally worked on this car and also autographed it.  Exterior Basic black covers this 1923 which the sales brochure boasts as new low body lines with a bit of a European touch and full crown fenders.  Even the belt that holds the hand crank is black, as is the radiator shell and the rounded, center hinged engine covers, louvered vertically on the sides and equipped with black handles.  The canvas top is in excellent condition and sports two square windows in back, just above the trunk space adorned with a single taillight.  The rim of the cabin reveals its influence from horse carriage by its rising back end and diminutive doors that enclose occupants after ages of being exposed to the elements.  These doors bear the name of a Vodka business.  Aluminum textured step plates dot the running board and provide grip for entering and exiting in damp weather while spectacular 30-inch wood spoke wheels show richly on the car.   No exterior imperfections to note here and it presents wonderfully.   Interior The column tufted black bench wraps occupants in a wide U-shaped loveseat and the driver has the pleasure of controlling the direction with a wood and metal 4 spoke steering wheel.  The ignition key port and one gauge is on the painted black dash, and that's about it!  Below, beautifully stained wood is the finest flooring with cut outs and plates to house the pedals and hand brake.  The trunk is a simple painted square affair, and its lid bears the signatures of Richard Petty and Dale Inman, NASCAR crew chief.  Drivetrain Behind the engine cover is a clean, show worthy 177ci L-head inline 4 cylinder with a 1-barrel carburetor, yellow wires, and a 2-speed planetary transmission.  3.63 gears are found out back and transfers the 22 horsepower to the rear wheels, where mechanical drum brakes reside.  Undercarriage Clean and black and rust free, the underside is simple and unencumbered.  There's a drop of oil here and there but for a car that's 101 years old, we give it a pass as the presence of oil is minimal.  The single exhaust is stainless steel, so probably good for another 100 years, and exits just beyond the rear axle under the car.   Drive-Ability Choke, throttle, and spark adjusted, and this roadster fired up without complaint and rolled onto the test loop with 22 horses eagerly galloping along.  We're not looking to do burnouts here, driving just enough to test the functionality and they all get passing grades.  While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase.  An impressive restoration from the garage of Richard Petty, this 1923 is a shining example of what commonly roamed the street 100 years ago.  Triple black enhanced by black grained wood, this showpiece would be an amazing addition to a Ford dealership showroom, a museum collection of early American cars, or even better, your garage!  Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is

The 1923 Ford Model T: The Quintessential "Tin Lizzie"

The 1923 Ford Model T, affectionately known as the "Tin Lizzie," stands as a pivotal model in automotive history, representing the zenith of Ford's innovative "universal car" philosophy. By 1923, the Model T had been in continuous production for over a decade, a testament to its revolutionary design and Henry Ford's commitment to mass production and affordability. This year marked a period of refinement and incremental improvements, solidifying the Model T's status as the people's automobile and a symbol of American ingenuity.

Evolution and Refinements:

While visually similar to its predecessors, the 1923 Model T incorporated several key advancements that further enhanced its practicality and desirability. Ford's relentless pursuit of efficiency and reliability meant that by this year, many of the earlier kinks had been ironed out, making the Model T a robust and dependable machine.

  • Engine: The heart of the 1923 Model T remained its legendary 177 cubic inch (2.9-liter) L-head inline-four cylinder engine. Producing approximately 20 horsepower, this simple yet effective powerplant was renowned for its durability and ease of maintenance. It utilized a splash lubrication system and a magneto ignition system, all contributing to its robust nature.
  • Transmission: The iconic planetary gear transmission, a hallmark of the Model T, continued to be a defining feature. This innovative system, operated by a complex arrangement of pedals, allowed for two forward speeds and one reverse gear. While initially daunting for new drivers, it became intuitive with practice and contributed to the Model T's ability to navigate varied terrain.
  • Suspension and Chassis: The transverse leaf spring suspension system, both front and rear, provided a surprisingly comfortable ride for its era, absorbing the bumps of unpaved roads common at the time. The sturdy chassis, constructed from vanadium steel, was a testament to Ford's engineering prowess, offering exceptional strength and longevity.
  • Brakes: The 1923 Model T featured a unique braking system. The main service brake operated on the transmission, activated by the central foot pedal when pushed forward. Additional brake shoes acted on the rear drums, controlled by the hand lever, providing a more substantial stopping force.
  • Body Styles: The 1923 Model T was available in a variety of body styles, catering to different needs and preferences. The most popular included:
    • Runabout: A sporty open two-seater, often considered the quintessential Model T.
    • Touring Car: A more practical four-seater open car, ideal for families.
    • Coupe: A closed two-seater with a more refined interior.
    • Sedan: A closed four-seater, offering greater comfort and protection from the elements.
    • Tudor Sedan: A specific four-door sedan with a more enclosed cabin.
    • Other variations like the panel delivery truck and station wagon were also produced, showcasing the Model T's versatility.

Key Improvements for 1923:

While the fundamental design remained consistent, the 1923 model saw several notable upgrades:

  • Electric Starter: This was a significant advancement. Prior to this, Model Ts relied on a hand crank to start the engine, which could be a strenuous and sometimes dangerous endeavor. The availability of an electric starter greatly enhanced ease of use and broadened the car's appeal to a wider demographic, including women.
  • Electric Headlights: Earlier models often used oil or acetylene lamps for illumination. The adoption of electric headlights significantly improved nighttime visibility and safety.
  • Improved Steering: Minor refinements were made to the steering mechanism, contributing to better handling and control.
  • More Robust Body Construction: Ford continued to strengthen the body panels and overall construction, further enhancing the durability of the "Tin Lizzie."

Impact and Legacy:

The 1923 Ford Model T was more than just a car; it was a transformative force. Its affordable price, achieved through Henry Ford's assembly line methods, put personal transportation within reach of the average American family. This democratized mobility, enabling people to travel further, live further from their workplaces, and explore their country. The Model T fostered the growth of suburbs, the development of road infrastructure, and a fundamental shift in American lifestyle.

By 1923, the Model T had achieved an unparalleled level of refinement and reliability. It represented the pinnacle of Ford's early automotive achievements, a testament to its enduring legacy as the car that truly put the world on wheels. While production would continue for several more years, the 1923 model stands as a crucial milestone in the evolution of the automobile and a cherished icon of the Roaring Twenties.

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Listed on May 16, 2025 (a year ago)
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