Specifications for the 1931 Ford Model A Roadster
by John Stevens J.D.After a 23-year absence, Ford brought back the Model A to replace the Model T. This second generation was produced from 1927 through 1931. In 1931, 19 body types were produced under the Model A brand, including the two-seat Roadster. The Coupe and the Deluxe Coupe were the only other Model As in 1931 that featured two doors. Despite its lower price, the Coupe and the Deluxe Coupe outsold the Roadster by significant margins. Ironically, it is because of the Roadster's poor sales that its value has steadily increased due to its rarity.
Dimensions and Weight
The 1931 Roadster was 152.718 inches in length and featured a 103.500-inch wheelbase. The car was 55.780 inches wide and 68.0625 inches in height. Front and rear track widths were 56 inches. The car weighed 2,155 lbs.
Engine
The Roadster was available only with the 200.5 cubic-inch four-cylinder engine. The engine featured a 3.875-inch bore and a 4.250-inch stroke. Its compression ratio was 4.22:1. The engine produced 40 horsepower at 2,200 rpm and 128 foot-pounds of torque at 1,000 rpm. The engine featured two valves per cylinder, mechanical valve lifters and a Zenith brand carburetor.
Transmission
A three-speed manual transmission was equipped in all Roadsters. The transmission featured sliding gears that were actuated via a 9-inch dry multiple disk clutch. The final drive ratio was 3.77:1.
Suspension, Brakes and Wheels
A single transverse leaf spring was installed at each corner of the car. The Roadster was equipped with mechanically operated drum brakes. Each drum was 11 inches in diameter. The vehicle was equipped with steel spoke wheels. Balloon-type tires were used. Each tire was 4.75 inches wide and 19 inches in diameter.
Fluid Capacities
The Roadster held 10 gallons of fuel. Its transmission held 1.5 pints of fluid. The engine held 5 quarts of oil. The cooling system stored 12 quarts of fluid, and the rear differential held 1.5 pints of fluid.
References
- "American Cars: The Automobiles that Made America"; Craig Cheetham; 2004
- "Illustrated Buyer's Guide: Ford Model T & Model A"; Paul G. McLaughlin; 1994
Writer Bio
John Stevens has been a writer for various websites since 2008. He holds an Associate of Science in administration of justice from Riverside Community College, a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice from California State University, San Bernardino, and a Juris Doctor from Whittier Law School. Stevens is a lawyer and licensed real-estate broker.