Today in History: Last iconic Ford ‘Tin Lizzie’ rolls off the production line

MORE than any other vehicle, the relatively affordable and efficient Model T was responsible for accelerating the automobile’s introduction into American society during the first quarter of the 20th century.

Introduced in October 1908, the Model T – also known as the ‘Tin Lizzie’ – weighed some 545kg, with a 20-horsepower, four-cylinder engine and could travel up to 70kph.

Initially selling for around $850, the Model T would later sell for as little as $260 for the basic, no-extras model.

Largely due to the Model T’s incredible popularity, the US government made construction of new roads one of its top priorities by 1920. By 1926, however, the Lizzie had become outdated in a rapidly expanding market for cheaper cars.

While Henry Ford had hoped to keep up production of the Model T while retooling his factories for its replacement, the Model A, lack of demand forced his hand.

On May 25, 1927, he made headlines around the world with the announcement that he was discontinuing the Model T.

As recorded by Douglas Brinkley in ‘Wheels for the World’, his biography of Ford, the legendary carmaker delivered a eulogy for his most memorable creation:

“It had stamina and power. It was the car that ran before there were good roads to run on. It broke down the barriers of distance in rural sections, brought people of these sections closer together and placed education within the reach of everyone.”

After production officially ended the following day, Ford factories shut down in early June and some 60 000 workers were laid off. The Model A was released that December but no car in history had the impact of the Model T.

(Information from history.com)

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram

For news straight to your phone, add us on BBM 58F3D7A7 or WhatsApp 082 421 6033