It’s not a stretch to say Henry Ford’s cars were one of the most important innovations in history, making the automobile accessible to everyman. Henry Ford first produced a car he called the Model A in 1903, followed by the Model T in 1908. The Model T sold some 15 million copies, finally ceasing production in 1927 to make way for the new Model A. If you have a yen for a simple car from a simpler time, this one’s for you: here on Bid Fast and Last, is a Ford Model A Coupe. The car is bid to $6000 online already, with live bidding to commence on June 10 at 9 am PDT. This is an estate sale in Lancaster, California. We’re given very little information about this car. After investigation, it appears to be a 1929, with the reverse curve bumpers, cat’s eye in the headlamp lenses, black steering wheel, and distinctive radiator shell, but I stand ready to be corrected if anyone out there is a Model A expert.

This car looks relatively rust-free despite its derelict surroundings. One photo shows a California license plate with a tag that may say – if I squint through the dust – 2006, likely the last time it was on the road. Though it was driven in California, the seller indicates that it has a clear title from Arizona. The rumble seat is charming, though not terribly useful in the rain. The interior is tidy given its storage circumstances and years of disuse. The roof has seen some work, with new wood bows. The instrument panel gives you the basics – an ammeter, speedometer and odometer, a rudimentary fuel gauge, ignition, and dash light switch.

The undercarriage is dry with surface rust. It looks straight enough. The frame underpinning the Model A is a simple ladder-type, with three cross members. If you have fantasies of beefing up the motor in your Model A, make sure to attend to the frame as well. Hotrodders call over-motored Model A’s with original frames “flexible flyers”.

The motor is a 201 cubic inch inline four cylinder, making about 40 bhp. The transmission is an unsynchronized three speed manual. Top speed was an optimistic 65 mph, though you better have Dramamine handy. Model A owners make the most of those ponies, with a variety of club events available nationwide. For the truly venturesome, check out the Great Race, where every year some entrants flog their Model A’s 2000 miles across varying terrain. What do you think, is this one worth a bid?