Beschreibung:

Production of Ford’s 1915 Model Ts began in September 1914, the first models introduced being the new Sedan with centre door and the ‘Coupelet’ drophead coupé. New Runabout and Touring models arrived in January ’15, though production of the 1914-style open cars continued until April or thereabouts. Foremost among the new season’s styling changes were a flared scuttle and curved rear wings that followed the arc of the wheel. It is worth noting that there are detail variations between individual bodies of the same style made in the same year, the result of Ford using a number of different coachbuilders. On the mechanical side, the major innovation was the option of electric lighting for the headlamps, which were powered by the engine’s low-tension magneto. An old-fashioned bulb horn was standard equipment to begin with, but following a successful trial, a magneto-powered horn was phased in, becoming the exclusive fitting by the year’s end. Conservative in the extreme, Ford was reluctant to change a design he believed would last for ever. The provision of an electric starter was still over the horizon. Ford Model T chassis number ‘839926’ was manufactured in July 1915. It was completed with Touring coachwork, which was by far the most popular of the five body styles offered that year with 244,181 units sold, considerably more than the rest combined. The car has been treated to a full ‘body off’ restoration, the engine, transmission, steering and running gear having been overhauled, and the hood, radiator, windscreen and frame, tyres, wheel spokes, interior trim and seats renewed. It is finished in black with matching leather upholstery, while original-specification white tyres are mounted on wooden ‘artillery’ wheels. Polished brass fittings include the radiator, water temperature gauge, hub covers, side steps, headlamp rims, sidelights, mirrors and horn. A tilting windscreen and auxiliary water pump are fitted.