1907 Ford Model N Runabout

1907 Ford Model N Runabout
Chassis no. 4914
Engine no. 261
"There was a sensation at the Sixty-ninth Regiment Armory automobile show today, caused by the arrival of the first Ford Runabout" – New York Globe, January 1906.

Following his success with the flat-twin powered Model A, C, and F, Henry Ford decided to make a big leap forward and introduce a model that was more advanced and in line with the style of motorcars being produced. Powered by a four-cylinder motor, with heads cast in pairs, it featured a familiar twin speed planetary transmission, handsome two-seat bodywork, sturdy Vanadium steel construction, and an attractive price of $500—$150 less than Oldsmobile's long-in-the-tooth Runabout and a quarter the price of Ford's own preceding Model F. It would also represent Ford's entrée into mass production. From 1907, when this car was built, prices went up to $600.

Information confirming the date of supply of car 4914 does not survive, but analysis of surrounding numbers in the '49..' region suggest that this would have been delivered in early May 1907, although its engine number would appear to be out of sequence with these many of which matched their car numbers, others were 3 digit units, so it may be original to the car.

Unmissable in its stark red scheme over light cream running gear, this 'N' is equipped with an E&J acetylene generator on the dashboard, headlights and sidelights as well as a pretty 'buggy' style top. According to the modest file of papers with the car, the N was incorrectly listed as chassis 4913 a typographical error not uncommon with old US title documents. That title, shows ownership in Bull Shoals, Arkansas with a Raymond Plaster in 1981. It was later exported to Holland and into the collection in 1997, with a correction of chassis number.
A pretty,