Before the development of modern automobiles, there was a time when only the rich and famous could afford a car. Henry Ford committed himself to producing large volumes of the Model T, establishing a new plant in Highland Park, Michigan, in 1910. In 1913-1914, he introduced a new process for mass production of automobiles called the moving assembly line. In 1912, the Model T runabout cost $575 – less than the average American worker’s annual wage – and a Model T coupe sold for $290 by 1927. By the end of the decade, over 15 million Model T cars were sold, and personal “automobility” became a reality.
Model T
A Model T is an early 19th-century automobile. Its controls were much different than those found on today’s vehicles. In the Model T, the accelerator/throttle lever was located on the steering wheel, along with a control that advanced/retarded the ignition spark. The Model T also had three pedals on the floor: a right-side pedal for the brake, a center pedal for changing gears, and a left-hand pedal for the gear lever.
Daimler-Mercedes
The Mercedes-Benz automobile was created by the union of Daimler and Benz companies in 1924. They continued to use their respective brand names, but were able to coordinate designs and produce cars under the Mercedes-Benz name. The merger saved both companies from bankruptcy, but it also weakened them. Today, the Mercedes-Benz automobile is the world’s most popular luxury car. In a bid to remain competitive, Mercedes-Benz continues to offer high-quality vehicles at an affordable price.
Model T Ford
The Ford Model T was first sold in 1908. It came in different colors such as green, red and blue. Originally, the car came only in black, but from 1914 to 1926, it was available in different colors including green and blue. It was only in 1926 and 1927 that the car was available in black paint, as this was the fastest drying paint. However, black was soon outsold by other colors. During this time, the Model T gained in popularity because it was more economical and easier to maintain.
Model T Chevrolet
The earliest version of the Model T Chevrolet was the 1917 model. It was built from 1917 to 1923. The car’s design changed significantly from the earlier years. The hood was tapered with a curved top and hinges located at the joint between the flat sides and the top. The hood was often referred to as a “low hood” because the hood’s back edge met the front edge of the cowl panel. This hood design was used for the longest time, making up more than half of all Model Ts.
Ford Model T
The Ford Model T was an early car that lacked the safety features that modern vehicles possess, such as a handbrake. This model also lacked the service brake. Instead, the Model T’s parking brake operated band brakes inside the rear wheel drums. The brakes were part of the wheel hubs, and were operated by the right foot pedal. Later models added rear wheel brakes, which were operated by the handbrake lever.
