1928 Ford Model A Roadster Pickup

Description

Ford replaced the ubiquitous Model T with the substantially more modern Model A in 1928. The new model debuted a host of significant improvements, namely its “L-head” inline-four-cylinder engine, which boasted increased displacement and an output of 40 horsepower – double that of the Model T. The A also adopted a more conventional layout of driver controls, which included a clutch pedal and gear shift lever controlling the new three-speed, sliding-mesh manual transmission. Inside, Model A styling featured beautiful, Lincoln-inspired bodywork. 

Ford's 1928 pickup truck was based on its new passenger car and was offered in two versions: an open-cab Model A Roadster Pickup, starting at $395 (about $7,257 today) and a closed-cab version for $445 ($8,176). 

The Roadster Pickup was a popular choice for buyers who required a utility vehicle but also wanted some style. The truck’s design included an open-sided cab with distinctive windshield and cargo area in the rear, a setup that offered easy loading and unloading of merchandise, along with a more relaxed and enjoyable driving experience (in good weather anyway). As the closed-cab design grew in popularity, the roadster pickup lost its appeal, making surviving examples both rare and highly sought-after. 

Highlights 

• Offered with the five-digit odometer showing 79,997 miles, which the longtime owner believes to be original, however the true mileage is unknown   

• Consistently stored in a climate-controlled garage 

• Finished in black paint with black canvas top over black interior 

• Leather bench seat and door upholstery with a stitched pattern 

• Powered by a 201 cu-in L-head four-cylinder engine rated at 40 horsepower and 128 ft-lb torque (rebuilt in September 2015) 

• Three-speed sliding-mesh manual transmission 

• Etched glass side windows 

• Custom oak side rails 

• Cobra 19 Ultra II CB radio and antenna 

• The chassis number (A201360) decodes as: 

  • A - Model 

  • 201360 – Production number 

• Offered with the five-digit odometer showing 79,997 miles, which the longtime owner believes to be original, however the true mileage is unknown  

Features 

• First-year Model A Roadster pickup 

• Powder-coated, red-painted, spoked wheels 

• Bedford Famous whitewall tires 

• Wolf whistle and “ahooga” horn 

• Custom-built wooden cup holders 

• Four-spoke steering wheel 

• Pinstriping 

• Running boards 

• Motometer 

• Dash instrumentation: 

  • Barrel-type speedometer  

  • Temperature  

  • Amperage 

• Aftermarket seat belts 

Known Imperfections 

• Paint chips up front 

• Minor pitting on grille brightwork 

• Paint chips and scratches in bed 

• Minor corrosion on underside as expected for a vehicle of this vintage 

Included 

• Spare tire mounted below bed 

• Lug wrench 

Ownership History 

This well-maintained 1928 Ford Model A Roadster Pickup was enjoyed by its current owners for nearly 30 years and has always been stored in a climate-controlled garage.