Description
The Ford Model A Sport Coupé was one of the most stylish and desirable versions of the Model A lineup, produced between 1928 and 1931. It was designed to combine the closed comfort of a coupé with the flair of an open car, appealing to younger buyers and those who wanted something a little sportier than the standard Tudor or Fordor sedans.
The Sport Coupé featured a two-door, two-passenger body with a rumble seat at the rear, allowing space for two additional passengers. Its defining characteristic was its fabric-covered roof with a faux landau bar treatment, giving it the look of a convertible even though the top was fixed. This detail, along with bright trim, wire wheels, and stylish body lines, set it apart from more utilitarian Model A versions. The rumble seat was especially popular with younger buyers, as it added a playful, almost roadster-like character to the car.
Inside, the Sport Coupé was more refined than basic body styles. It featured comfortable upholstery, better interior fittings, and a sense of luxury within Ford’s affordable range. It was a car meant not just for practical transportation but also for style-conscious owners who valued appearance as much as functionality.
Mechanically, the Sport Coupé was identical to the rest of the Model A range. It used the 201 cubic inch (3.3-liter) four-cylinder engine producing 40 horsepower, paired with a three-speed manual gearbox. Capable of cruising at 50–55 mph, it was a reliable and practical car for everyday use. Mechanical brakes on all four wheels and sturdy suspension made it safe and rugged, suitable for both city streets and rougher country roads.
With a price starting around $550, the Sport Coupé was slightly more expensive than basic Tudors or Roadsters, but it offered a sense of flair and individuality that many customers found irresistible. It sold in significant numbers, though not as many as the more family-oriented sedans, which dominated overall Model A sales.
Today, the Ford Model A Sport Coupé is highly prized among collectors for its blend of charm, sportiness, and practicality. The combination of the faux-convertible styling, rumble seat, and elegant details makes it one of the most attractive Model A body styles. It captures the optimistic spirit of late 1920s motoring and remains a favorite at vintage car shows, embodying the moment when cars began to be as much about style as they were about utility.