Vehicle exhibits

The Ford Model T revolutionized the automobile industry, but by the mid-1920s, competition from General Motors and others began to erode Ford’s dominance. Rivals offered features that consumers increasingly viewed as essential - such as electric starters and improved styling - pressuring Ford to innovate.

In response, Ford introduced the Model A in 1927. It was a dramatic step forward, featuring a more powerful engine and modern driver controls, including a conventional clutch, brake, throttle, and gearshift. It also included a visual fuel gauge, safety glass windshield (a first in a mass-produced car), and optional rear-view mirrors and cabin heaters.

This Model A sedan was one of the vehicles used around New Zealand to promote the production of the 20 millionth Ford, which officially rolled off the assembly line on April 14, 1931. That historic car—a 1931 Ford Model A Town Sedan—was marked and celebrated in a nationwide publicity campaign in the United States.

Though this car is a 1931 model, some references list it as 1930 due to overlapping body styles and production years. Ford’s model year transitions often occurred mid-calendar year, which has led to ongoing confusion in historical records.