1930 Ford Model A VIN Verification

INTRODUCTION

The 1930 Ford Model A marked a significant evolution in Ford’s automotive lineup, succeeding the legendary Model T. It introduced modern features and styling, making it a favorite among drivers of its time.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

Introduced in December 1927 as a 1928 model, the Model A was Ford’s response to the declining popularity of the Model T. By 1930, the Model A had undergone design refinements, including a higher grille, longer hood, and more graceful fender curves . Ford produced approximately 1.16 million Model As in 1930, offering a variety of body styles to cater to diverse customer preferences .

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

• Engine: 201 cubic inch (3.3 L) L-head inline-4

• Horsepower: 40 hp at 2,200 RPM

• Torque: Approximately 128 lb-ft at 1,000 RPM

• Compression Ratio: 4.22:1

• Top Speed: Around 65 mph (105 km/h)

• Fuel Economy: Approximately 25–30 mpg (U.S.)

• Transmission: 3-speed sliding-gear manual with 1-speed reverse

• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (FR layout)

• Final Drive Ratio: 3.77:1

The Model A’s engine was a significant improvement over the Model T, offering double the horsepower and a more conventional driving experience .

DESIGN & FEATURES

• Exterior:

  • Refined body lines with a higher grille and longer hood

  • Sweeping fenders and smaller wheels (19 inches)

  • Stainless steel radiator cowling and headlamp housings

• Interior:

  • Utilitarian yet comfortable cabin

  • Standard driver controls: clutch, brake, throttle, and gearshift

  • Optional features included a rear-view mirror and heater

The 1930 Model A introduced safety glass in the windshield, a first for Ford vehicles .

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

The Model A was available in numerous body styles, including:en.wikipedia.org+1classicandsportscar.com+1

• Standard and Deluxe Coupes

• Business Coupe

• Sport Coupe

• Roadster Coupe (Standard and Deluxe)

• Convertible Cabriolet

• Convertible Sedan

• Phaeton (Standard and Deluxe)

• Tudor and Fordor Sedans (Standard and Deluxe)

• Town Car

• Victoria

• Station Wagon

• Taxicab

• Trucks and Commercial Vehicles

These variants catered to a wide range of customers, from families to businesses .

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

• Brakes: Four-wheel mechanical drum brakes

• Suspension: Transverse leaf springs with solid axles

• Fuel System: Gravity-fed from a cowl-mounted tank with a visual fuel gauge

• Ignition: Distributor-based system

• Cooling: Water-cooled with a circulating pump and radiator

The Model A’s conventional controls made it more accessible to drivers transitioning from other vehicles .

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

The 1930 Model A achieved approximately 25–30 miles per gallon (U.S.), depending on driving conditions and maintenance .

MARKET COMPARISON

In its era, the Model A competed with vehicles like the Chevrolet Series AD Universal and the Plymouth Model U. While competitors offered similar features, the Model A stood out for its reliability, ease of maintenance, and widespread availability.

PRICING

• Base Price: Approximately $500 for the Tudor Sedan

• Top-tier Models: Up to $1,400 for the Town Car

These prices made the Model A accessible to a broad segment of the population during the early 1930s .

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

While specific awards from the era are scarce, the Model A’s legacy is evident in its enduring popularity among classic car enthusiasts. Its design and engineering advancements set new standards in the automotive industry, cementing its place as a significant milestone in Ford’s history.