The Roaring Twenties was a decade of modernization and optimism in the United States. Shortly before the stock market crash of late 1929, Ford came out with a successor to its Model T that still garners a collector following nearly 100 years later. One such car is a 1929 Ford Model A Tudor Custom that is listed on AutoHunter by a dealer in Gladstone, Oregon. The auction will end on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 12:15 p.m. (MST).
As a bit of backstory, between about 1908 and 1927, the pioneering Ford Model T had sold over 15 million units, making it the highest-selling vehicle in history until later being passed by the Volkswagen Beetle. Imagine being on Ford’s product planning team and trying to come up with a new car that could even come close to filling the shoes the Model T left behind.
That was where the Model A came into play, boasting a 40-horsepower engine (double what the Model T had), as well as conveniences like a three-speed transmission (replacing the complex two-speed planetary), four-wheel brakes, an electric starter, and hydraulic shocks. Oh yeah – and you could get the Model A in a variety of colors besides black, unlike its predecessor.
This burgundy Model A is full of unique upgrades. While the car is still boxy in shape, the chopped top gives it a sleeker, hot-rod stance. The body is said to be all steel (as opposed to fiberglass replacement parts) and the top is covered in an ivory soft material. Exterior features include turn signals, a pop-out windshield, dual side mirrors, dual exhaust outlets, and 15-inch steel wheels with Coker wide-whitewall tires.
The cozy cabin’s later-model bucket seats (as well as the door panels and headliner) have been reupholstered in ivory vinyl with black accent piping. Features include a floor-mounted shifter, a custom headliner, a Grant steering wheel, lap belts, and dashboard pinstriping.
Another attribute that makes this car stand out is its powertrain. In place of the original engine is a Studebaker 232ci flathead V8 mated to a three-speed manual transmission and a 1939 Ford “Quick Change” rear end. Dual two-barrel carburetors and an electric fan help bring it all together for optimal running and driving condition.
So, after all the Model T’s success, did the Model A live up to expectations? In 1929 alone, there were over a dozen body styles available, encompassing closed cars (sedans/coupes), open cars (convertibles), and commercial vehicles. There seemed to be a Model A for everyone, and indeed, it did sell well – at least until the Great Depression hit. Sales for 1929 topped about 1.5 million units.
If you’ve been considering a vintage hot rod with some period-correct character, your chopped-top Tudor has arrived.
The auction for this 1929 Ford Model A Custom ends Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 12:15 p.m. (MST).
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery
