Ford Model A
The car that saved Ford: Henry Ford's first commercial success.
- Power
- 8 bhp
- Top speed
- 28 mph
- Est. value
- $135k–$265k
About the Ford Model A
The 1903 Model A was the first production vehicle from the Ford Motor Company, saving the firm from bankruptcy just as its initial capital was nearly exhausted. It featured a mid-mounted, horizontally opposed two-cylinder engine and a two-speed planetary transmission, a design layout that preceded the legendary Model T. Available as a two-seat Runabout or a four-seat Tonneau, it was marketed as the 'most reliable machine in the world'. While primitive by modern standards, its commercial success provided the foundation for Ford's future dominance of the American automotive industry.
Ford Model A specs
The Ford Model A produces 8 bhp (6 kW). It has a top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Model A |
| Generation | 1903 |
| Trim | 8hp |
| Years | 1903–1904 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Runabout |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 1,750 built |
| Original price | About $750 when new |
| Engine | 1.6-litre flat-2 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,668 cc (1.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 8 bhp (6 kW) |
| Top speed | 28 mph (45 km/h) |
| Transmission | 2-speed planetary |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 562 kg (1,239 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 14 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Model A worth?
A typical Ford Model A is estimated to be worth $135,000 – $265,000 (about £101,000 – £198,000).
Its original price when new was about $750.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Model A rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Model A is a Legendary card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 95 out of 100. Flagship models and limited runs, typically worth £250,000 or more. A Legendary card is worth 160 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Model A fun facts
- When the first Model A was sold in July 1903, the Ford Motor Company had only $223.65 remaining in its bank account.
- The car was originally sold only in red, though many owners later repainted them in different colours.
- In 2012, Bill Ford Jr. purchased the oldest known surviving Model A, chassis number 30, for $264,000 to return it to the family collection.
