1930 Ford Model A

4-cylinder

Manual

CA94889

1930 Model A Ford Four-Door Left-Drive Drive Phaeton Up for auction is a very rare and collectible right-hand drive Phaeton shipped to USA from South Africa! Of course, with a vehicle of this age, there is always a story...In 1970, my friend was 16 and living in Johannesburg, South Africa. He saw an advertisement for a Model A, and having been to America and knowing how cool these vehicles are, he immediately had to have it! The owner was having to sell it to make room in the garage for his wife's new car; I'm sure this is a familiar story. After its purchase, the Model A engine was rebuilt professionally in South Africa at a Ford Dealer. Shortly thereafter, my friend emigrated to St Louis in the US. The car was not shipped to him until 1985; a new family, new house, and the corresponding expenses did not allow him the time or cash to transfer the SA title to a US title until 1995. Short outings in the Model A are a favorite memory of his children; they remember the huge open feel of driving down the streets in the phaeton; all heads turning as they do when a vintage car passes...and, then...the double-takes when everyone realized that the driver is on the "wrong" side of the car. They called it their "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" outings. The car is still a beloved family treasure, but, hard as it is, it's time to downsize, and neither child has the resources or inclination to keep the Model A. So, looking for a new home for this highly collectible vehicle.Due to the intense sun in South Africa, roofed cars were more common than this convertible phaeton.Until 1985, this car spent its life in South Africa, which features a low-humidity, desert environment. Thus, unlike most cars from high-humidity areas, this Model A Phaeton has only minimal rust! Metal body is dent free and in excellent conditionWooden roof parts and flooring are rot and mold free. Springs in the seats are in great shape, ready for new upholstery. NOTE: On this right-hand drive, the accelerator is between the brake and clutch pedals; not the typical arrangement.All the mechanicals have been examined and addressed: The original motor rebuilt less than 500 miles ago; New clutch; New throw-out bearing; New pressure plate; New springs; Zenith Carburator was rebuilt; Gas tank valve replaced; New brake pads, and bearings; Original bumpers re-chromed, Wheels sand blasted and repainted, new whitewall tires and bearings.Plus many general maintenance items that have been replaced over the years.The engine runs very smoothly; not broken in yet. Transmission shifts smoothly through all gears.Breaks straight. Has newer battery; car always starts up even if cold and sitting for a while. Has battery disconnect key.Things that need TLCI have the side curtains for cold weather, the top is still intact but needs to be replaced, The Muffler has a hole at the pipe at the very end but does not have any other leaks, makes no noise, needs to be replaced. To make this a show car of your taste, it will need a paint job, new canvas roof and upholstery, to finish it off. As small children were transported and to avoid worry about scratches and wear, cosmetic issues were not addressed by this owner. (Parts and upholstery kit for seats, doors, and top are still available for this car through www.macsautoparts.com, plus many other suppliers.)This car is a great investment as well as a fun drive. NOTE: As this is vintage and used, it is sold "as-is." The car is located in the western portion of the St Louis Metropolitan area; approx 15 minutes from Lambert airport; 15 minutes from all major highways; very convenient for travel and/or shipping arrangements. Will help with loading if necessary. Car has a clear Mo. title (From my limited research, it seems like the engines for the Model A offered in South Africa were manufactured in Canada; something to do with tariffs and legislation; that may explain the "CA" in the VIN?) (Note from a viewer (thanks!): Not only was your engine built in Canada... very probably the whole car may have been. The bumper clamps are too, the style used on Canadian built cars.- mxxxxxx05) Please contact me for more information, clarification, or if you have particular questions; any misleading information here is my inexperience with cars, no intent to deceive. More photos are available. Thanks for looking.