From the Barton and Lucy Carlson Collection The ex-David Rockefeller...

1911 Ford Model T 3-Passenger Roadster
Engine no. 54003
176.7ci L-head Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
Single Updraft Carburetor
22bhp at 1,600rpm
2-Speed Planetary Transmission
Transverse Leaf Spring Suspension
2-Wheel Mechanical Brakes + Driveshaft Brake

*Highly originals and rare early 'Brass T'
*Acquired from the David Rockefeller Collection
*Lovely presentation in dark blue with white accents
*In fine running condition

THE FORD MODEL T

Without a doubt, the Ford Model T is the most famous of all antique cars. Its cultural significance cannot be argued, and neither can its charisma. While Henry Ford was infamous in his pragmatism, much of the Model T's enormous success can be credited to its simple, yet appealing style. Ford's designers worked to ensure that his products looked good so to present a sense of value; and nowhere is this more apparent than in these early Brass Era Ts.

Ford toed the line between handsome and cute with the early cars, and for the 1911 model year, they had been extensively redesigned with new (yet familiar) styling. A Model T, although not a big car, maintained great dignity and presence, and anyone would be proud to own one. While the competition's low-priced cars looked cheap and small, the Ford had an air of quality that made it a truly classless automobile.

Throughout Model T production, Ford offered a dizzying array of body styles for virtually any situation imaginable. From two-place roadsters to delivery vans and opulent town cars, there was a T for nearly any budget and purpose. For 1911, bodies were now made of steel skin over a wood framework, which was lighter and more durable than before. Particularly with a sporty open body, a T of this era is surprisingly punchy, and once accustomed to the controls, is an absolute joy to drive.

For those who haven't experienced a great "Brass T," they are about as much fun as you can have on four wheels. When properly set up, they perform remarkably well, and many experienced brass car tourers will have a story about a pesky Model T driver keeping up with the likes of a Silver Ghost or Pierce-Arrow.

THE CAR OFFERED

This Model T is one of the sportier offerings for 1911, wearing the rarely seen 3-Passenger Roadster body, known in later iterations as the Commercial Roadster. This body features a two-person open runabout-style front compartment, with a single 'mother-in-law' seat mounted to a flat deck. The rear seat can be removed, and the deck used for cargo.

Acquired from the noted collection of David Rockefeller the detailed files contain correspondence with him. Rockefeller was a discerning collector with an eye for originality and it is no surprise this excellent example resided in his collection. This car retains superb original details like much of its upholstery and the lovely patinated coil box. Further examination of the chassis reveals the lovely details seen only on these early series Fords.

Beautifully presented in dark blue against the brass trim, it is eminently charming and a reminder that the "any color as long as it's black" narrative didn't come along until much later in T production. As with any early T, this Roadster is brilliant in its simplicity, while still conveying a sense of quality in its construction. Fittings include a roadster top, dual carriage lamps, brass mirror, acetylene generator, and side-saddle luggage rack with a period-style wicker basket.

Like the other Carlson Collection cars this Ford is in fine working order and has been looked after quite attentively during the Carlson's ownership. Being a fine mechanic, Bart has always made sure the cars were ready for the next tour and this one is no exception.