A vehicle believed to be the oldest Ford still in existence was recently auctioned off in Pennsylvania, where the 1903 Model A Rear Entry Tonneau was purchased by Bill Ford, Jr. of the Ford Motor Company. The car, which brought in $264,000 at the auction, will be used as part of the celebration honoring the 150th anniversary of the birth of Henry Ford.
"The timing was perfect to bring this key part of Ford heritage back to the family as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of my great-grandfather's birth and his vision to improve people's lives by making cars affordable for the average family," said Bill Ford, executive chairman of the automaker. "His vision to build cars that are reasonably priced, reliable and efficient still resonates and defines our vision today as well."
According to Motor Authority, the vehicle is the third Ford ever created and was one of the major reasons the company initially avoided bankruptcy. It was originally purchased by an Iowa butter producer for $850 and stayed in that family for more than 50 years before being sold to a Swiss Ford dealer and then to another private buyer. Despite its age, the car has undergone several rounds of restorative auto repair and remains in good driving condition.