Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

I'm going to look at a 29 Speedster on Sunday. I've tried to do some research(including the Ford Barn), but not coming up with much. The fellow has only had the car for about 4 months. He also has a 30 4 door for sale as well. He's asking $13,900 for the Speedster. Any "Barners" have or have ever had a Model A Speedster? Any help, pics or info would be greatly appreciated.
p.s. I'm not crazy about the white walls either--

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

A speedster is whatever the owner wants it to be. They are just a model A chassis and someones idea for some seats and body.

The real question is who rebuilt what and to what standards. Was the engine done by a respected engine builder?
How were the brakes done?
Were all new bearings used?
Often the engine has been upped in HP.

I think you get the picture.

For $13,900 it had best have all the best parts as they are pretty cheap restorations relatively speaking. I would expect a car that handles real nice and comfortable at any speed up to 65+ MPH (speedsters are light so higher top ends should be the norm). If the car is a chore to drive then it is not restored right.

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

At this point in time, the only thing I know for sure is that it has been updated to 12 volts. I'm hoping the current owner has the receipts from prior owner on engine work, etc. I've att. the rest of the pics that are available for now. Smitty

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

The car is ok, I do not like the Model T type fenders good luck what does the other car look like? here is a pic of my speedster.

mike
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/pictur...754281&thumb=1

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

While not a fan of "speedsters" which I consider a cobbled up bunch of old parts, be aware that registering and insuring such a vehicle legally you will probably end up with some problems.

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

It looks like its has a Rootlieb body kit with fenders. My speedster has the same kit without the fender option. Replacement body parts are available if you ever need them. The full kit retails for around $5500.

www.rootlieb.com

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

The price is a bit steep, a nicely redone stock model A would be about the same.

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

As Sparky says. No apparent engine mods. You could build it yourself for less than 13,900.

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

Talk with the DMV about the title/serial number and your insurance agent about getting insurance. Take pictures of the serial number (maybe tape over a couple of digits if the owner wants) and check to see that the serial number on the frame matches the one on the title.

Charlie Stephens

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

I didn't have any trouble registering mine, I just called it a 29 roadster. It is insured by J C Taylor.

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

Most states that require titles have the body style printed on the title from the previous owner. If it says 4 door sedan and your speedster has no doors there may be a problem down the road.....

Some car insurance companies require photos of the actual car.

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

U - the man Mike. Very nice

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

No title required for antiques in my state. I did send a photo to Taylor; they approved it.

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

Thanks Mitch, your cars are exceptional !
Mike

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

I just had a crazy thought that might interest you. If you have the time and desire, buy a running rolling chassis (with black walls) and build your own speedster!! Building a speedster sounds like a really fun project to me!!

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

Has anyone ever found photos of A speedsters that were built in the 1930's ? There were many T based Speedsters in the 1920's, but the Model A killed them in 1928 just as the Mustang killed Hot Rods in 1964. Never understood the over pricing of Speedsters over full bodied A's or T's. Bob

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

I am in California and have 3 speedsters. They are registered as conv. on the paper work.
I have the insurance thru J.C. Taylor and they are insured as speedsters.
No problem. There are lots of speedsters out there go for it, they are a blast.
Building another one right now.

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

This comes up all the time, "Is this too much money?", "is this worth the asking price?".

Drive it, how does it sound? How does it turn? How does it stop? Are you planning to keep it for a few years or flip it. I would pay more for a car I plan to keep 10+ years then one for a year or two.

Keep in mind there is always one cheaper elsewhere, always! Do you have the time to search that cheaper one out?

Look online and you will find few speedsters out there for sale as compared to other Model A's

Personally A speedster is something I would build not by but that is just me.

If it drives well, like i said above, and you have the money, go ahead and buy it. Drive it and enjoy it.

Re: Anybody have any info or help on Model A Speedsters
 

The Northwest Vintage Speedsters have a web site, www.nwvs.org that may be of some help. I agree that the one you are looking at is overpriced.