1907 Ford Model R Runabout

1907 Ford Model R Runabout
Chassis no. 808
Engine no. 808
THE FORD MODEL R

Although ambitious with its estimation of selling 10,000 Model N cars each year, the N was a huge sales success with over 7,000 delivered in a production run bridging 1906-1908. After the first flurry of sales, it was clear that the 'knocked down' basic Model N had a concept that was possibly too spartan and the consumers desired something a little more than that. The solution was the Model R. At $750, it cost 50% more than its little brother, and while mechanically much was shared, its presence was enhanced by larger 30 inch wheels, a more imposing body with more commodious seats, and a rounded 'beetle back' tail, ideal for strapping a spare tire or two to. It also had scalloped front wings leading to running boards and in standard form alone oil lamps to side and rear, and a brass horn were provided. Color choices were limited to dark Brewster Green or Carmine red, which could be matched to Brewster Green running gear or offset with cream.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This sporting Model R has a small history file which enables us to know that like many of the cars in the collection, it was acquired directly from the USA in the late 1990s. In these papers are an old Massachusetts title document, citing ownership by Vintage Automobiles of Northfield up to November 1998.

Viewed today, the car has the appearance of a sympathetic restoration or a basically sound example of this model. It would seem to retain some period upholstery, its seat squabs showing considerable age. The bodywork has been repainted in a dark burgundy color, with black wings, contrasted by bright red wheels and 'balloon' white wall tires. The frame is present around the back of the seats suggesting that it would have had a roof/top at some point, but this is no longer with the car.