Since the earliest of time, the automotive world created enthusiast engineers with a steadfast need to go faster, higher, and further than before. As the “horseless carriage” became more mainstream throughout the world in the early 1900’s, finding ways to produce more horsepower and speed was almost instantaneous! Not unlike today, drivers enjoy the thrill of racing their automobiles at the edge of their capabilities! The Ford Model T platform was clearly one of the most abundant chassis available, and making one go faster simply meant reducing weight and adding some under-hood tweaks for more top speed. Motor clubs would challenge each other in community racing events and hill climbs to be rewarded for both for their speed and driving skill. These minimalist vehicles become known as Speedsters, and they come in all varieties, with the Model T always being a favorite for us!
We are proud to offer this beautifully crafted 1912 Model T Speedster finished in classic White with Burgundy diamond-tufted leather seats and matching wire wheels and accent pinstriping. It comes very well dressed in brass appointments and built to be driven in confidence! Under the hood is a fully rebuilt, June 1927-dated 177ci Inine 4-cylinder engine allowing for the convenience of an electric starter, mated to a rebuilt Ford planetary 2-speed transmission. The steel body and cowl were assembled by Model T Speedster expert Tom Butterworth using Rootlieb curved top fenders, running boards, splash aprons, and Torpedo hood. Behind the two bucket seats rests a Rootlieb Ford-script oval gas tank also painted to match. It rides on brand new, and highly desired, Buffalo wire wheels all fitted with new Firestone tires (5) measuring 30 x 3½” in 2021.
Driving upgrades include 12-volt negative ground generator charging system with modern Texas T Parts distributor (T3161) with individual coil, Texas T water pump, Brassworks flat tube radiator, electric starter, and Holley NH carburetor. Additional features include leather hood strap, beautiful reproduction E&J brass headlamps with halogen bulb conversion, traditional wick side lamps, and taillamps converted to brighter LED bulbs. It has an original E&J brass spotlight that was converted to LED lighting. It is a beautifully crafted Speedster with brass-trimmed steering column, brass gear assembly with 1911 Torpedo-style mounting assembly, monocle windshield, and brass “Fat Man” tilt steering wheel. Additional body elements include bulb horn, solid basket-style rear trunk, restored 1912 Stewart Model 26 gear driven speedometer, beautifully finished wood dash and floorboards, and Ford ammeter installed at the top of the original wooden coil box.
While in the care of its most recent owner, it was treated to a complete comprehensive servicing in 2021 to include radiator flush with new hoses/clamps, new carb gaskets, new engine oil, spark plugs/wires, brand new tires, rebuilding of the Stewart mph gauge by Bill’s Speedometer Ship in Ohio, new muffler and heat wrap, modern lighting conversion, axle seals & grease lubrication, transmission cover door gasket, u-joint mounting bolts, and starter drive cover gasket. It starts with terrific ease and runs smoothly down the road as fast as you desire! Also included in the sale will be spare parts, tools, Buffalo wheel hex nut wrench and rear hub puller, reproduction “instruction handbook”, workshop literature, and parts receipts. Please call with additional questions or to schedule a chance to review it in person. A great addition to any collection!
