For years, Model A fans have complained about how most newer restorations are "over-done" and "over-accessorized," and they're probably right. These were working-class cars that were affordable and stylish, but still available to the regular guy. This lovely 1929 Ford tudor sedan is not only a rather unusual "steel back" body style, but has a comfortable, used appearance that represents the way Model As looked, say, back when they were still being used as real cars.Basic black was, of course, Henry Ford's favorite color, but other colors were available, including the handsome green shown here, which is either Balsam Green or Valley Green, depending on whose color chart you're using. Ford was building hundreds of thousands of Model As, and the books show that more than 240,000(!) 2-door sedans were built in 1929, making it the most popular model by far. The paint is quite old and the black fenders in particular are showing quite a bit of wear, but the car really does have an honest, no-nonsense look that we like a lot. For Ford fans, it's worth noting that this car isn't over-dressed, using a proper single-stage paint that more closely approximates the lacquer that was originally used. Contrasting light yellow on the belt moldings adds a subtle touch that was entirely Edsel Ford's doing, making the A attractive as well a functional. A single rear-mounted spare is a refreshing choice (most restorers add dual sidemounts), and the rear-mounted trunk makes this car a practical tour choice, too. The plated grille is in decent condition for driving and the long-grain vinyl top is still in great shape.The taupe upholstery isn't quite exact but it is quite attractive inside the tall green sedan. More upscale than you'd expect, it has a comfortable 1920s look and details like the shiny door hardware, map pockets in the doors, and attractive garnish moldings add to the upscale look. As usual, front seat passengers got a rubber mat, but the rear seat is carpeted and feels luxurious with plenty of stretch-out space. The A's usual single instrument panel with basic gauges remains the highlight of the interior, along with an accessory temperature gauge mounted underneath. Seat belts have been added for safety and the dash plaques suggest this car has been on its share of tours, more proof of its inherent road-worthiness. Get in and enjoy, that's the Model A's motto.The 200 cubic inch inline-four is this car's original engine and it's surprisingly energetic in the lightweight little sedan. It's got proper green paint, although a proper detailing would really make it shine. Experts will notice the presence of a modern 6-volt alternator in place of the original Powerhouse generator, but that's a smart choice and you'll never worry when you go to hit the starter. It retains the original-style copper spark plug leads, and still runs its original Zenith updraft carburetor, which remains easy to tune and service. The 3-speed manual transmission requires a light touch and a quick double-clutch to grab gears, something you'll quickly master with the A's easy-going nature, and the chassis is in good shape for a driver-grade car with no notable issues. Freshly painted 21-inch wire wheels look right and carry skinny Universal blackwall tires, which add the right bit of seriousness to the simple little Ford. It looks great!Not a show car and it doesn't seem to mind, this is a charming Model A that's closer to the original intent than a majority of them out there. Call today!
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