Classic Car Overview
Gateway Classic Cars of Philadelphia is proud to digitally present this rare and extraordinary 1916 Ford Model T Speedster Racer built from the ground up as a track-spec racer in its era and preserved today as a nearly museum-quality example of early American motorsport. Its riveted plate tag-SYVERSON CABT CO. DES PLAINES ILL - #434-signals its heritage and authentic workmanship in period style.From first glance this Model T commands attention. The exterior shell is deeply black matched with black leather seating and accented by red wire wheels with period-correct bias ply tires. Every component of the body and chassis is consistent with what would have been used in 1916 or during early race modifications reflecting a build with no modern conversions-only faithful restoration and preservation.Mechanical & Performance Details:Engine: Inline 4-cylinder flathead (L-head) engine Transmission: 2-speed planetary (direct manual control) transmissionThis particular car includes a clever historical racing detail: it can start and run off either battery or magneto with an auto synchron / spark coil switch to allow electric start when desired-an advanced feature for its time and a true nod to the ingenuity of early motorsport engineering. The dual-start capability would have allowed drivers to choose whichever system was more reliable on a given day an important edge in endurance and competition settings.The cars body tag from Syverson Cabinet Company in Des Plaines is a noteworthy historical feature. Syverson was known for crafting wood bodies and body components for Model T restorations and custom builds and its name carries prestige among T enthusiasts. Condition & AuthenticityWhat makes this Model T exceptional is its matching authentic components-no modern replacements or aftermarket conversions have been used where original-style parts exist. Every rivet every panel and every mechanical linkage has been kept or restored to the period appearance and function of a 1916 racing machine. The interior leather is supple and correct in feel; the red wire wheels and bias ply tires echo true early-racer aesthetics.Over the decades this car has been preserved with care and its originality and consistency make it a rare find for collectors vintage racers museums or historic car tours. The fact that it remains fully functional-starting running and drivable-speaks to the authenticity and mechanical integrity of the restoration.Key Features & HighlightsBuilt-era race car: engineered in 1916 for track useRiveted Syverson Cab Co. body tag (#434 Des Plaines IL)Period-correct black exterior with black leather seatsRed wire wheels with bias ply tiresMatching authentic original parts4-cylinder flathead (L-head) engine2-speed planetary transmissionDual-start system: battery or magneto with spark coil switchThis is far more than a vintage car-it is a piece of early American racing history a living artifact from an era when automotive competition was raw pioneering and full of spirit. For collectors museums historic racers or anyone with a passion for vintage speed this 1916 Model T offers a rare opportunity to own a true period race car that embodies the ingenuity and excitement of early automobile competition.The 1916 Ford Model T is listed by our Philadelphia Showroom and can be viewed in greater detail including 100+ HD pictures and an HD video at www.GatewayClassicCars.com. For additional information please call our knowledgeable staff or email us - Our Philadelphia Showroom is located at 195 9th Avenue Runnemede NJ 08078.
