The 1930 Ford Model A roadster remains one of the most beloved silhouettes in American automotive history, but few examples can claim the competitive pedigree of this Great American Race veteran. Modified specifically for long-distance endurance rallying, this roadster participated in the prestigious 1995 cross-country event. It features a suite of mechanical upgrades designed to ensure reliability under the stresses of multi-state touring. Now finished in a classic tan and black combination, it offers the next owner a turn-key entry into the world of vintage rallying and pre-war adventure.
Rally-Prepped Aesthetic with Authentic Competition Pedigree
The bodywork of this roadster is finished in a charming tan with darker accents, anchored by traditional black fenders and a beige convertible top. Its competition history is worn proudly, with a 1995 Great American Race plate affixed to the front grille guard. The exterior is highly functional, featuring dual side-mount spares, cowl lamps, and wind wings to assist during long days in the cockpit. A fold-down luggage rack at the rear hosts a trunk for extra storage, while yellow 19-inch wire wheels wrapped in fresh American Classic whitewalls provide a vibrant visual pop. This is a silhouette built for the open road, not just the local car show lawn.
A Purpose-Built Cabin for Two-Man Rallying
Inside, the cabin is focused on the unique needs of endurance timing and navigation. While the bench seat and rumble seat are traditionally upholstered in brown vinyl, the dashboard tells a more technical story. A secondary pod beneath the dash houses Stewart-Warner gauges for temperature and oil pressure, while a Great American Race-branded Jones speedometer sits to the driver’s right. Modern conveniences like electric wiper controls and turn signals have been integrated for safety, and tan square-weave carpets add a touch of refinement. It is an environment that balances the raw, tactile nature of a 1930s Ford with the data necessary for competitive success.
Endurance-Engineered 201ci Inline-Four
Reliability is the core of this Model A’s mechanical identity. The 201ci L-head inline-four was factory rated at 40 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque (41 PS and 174 Nm), but it has been heavily bolstered with “leakless” components. To survive the heat of summer rallies, an aftermarket radiator and an alternator have been installed along with a modern oil filter. Most notably, a secondary fuel tank with an electric fuel pump ensures a consistent fuel supply over long distances. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission, which received a fresh fluid change in December 2024 to ensure smooth gear engagement.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 201ci L-head Inline-Four |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Manual |
| Rally Equipment | Jones Speedometer / Secondary Fuel Tank |
| Electrical | Alternator Conversion |
| Wheels | 19-inch Wire (Yellow) |
A Proven Alternative to Standard Pre-War Survivors
In the current market for Ford Model As, documented rally history serves as a significant differentiator. While many survivors are restored to factory-original “museum” standards, a car prepped for the Great American Race offers immediate utility for tours like the Glidden or local vintage rallies. Compared to a standard roadster, the upgraded cooling, electrical, and fuel systems provide a measurable increase in buyer confidence for those who intend to drive their investment. As no-reserve auctions continue to highlight the demand for “sorted” pre-war Fords, this Great Race veteran stands out as a unique and historically interesting prospect.
Classic Charm Meets Cross-Country Capability
This 1930 Ford Model A roadster is a thumping reminder that these machines were built to be driven across the continent. It successfully bridges the gap between a 90-year-old antique and a capable distance cruiser, thanks to its thoughtful 1990s modifications. With its rumble seat ready for passengers and its engine prepped for the heat, it is ready to write its next chapter on the open road. For the enthusiast seeking a car with a story and the hardware to back it up, this roadster is an absolute standout.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
