Top Speed

[Charlie Stephens]

What's the top speed on a Model A?

A better question might be how fast can you comfortably drive one? I have a '31 RDPU, B engine and 3.54 rear. It is comfortable at 55 MPH and I have had it to 65 MPH with throttle left. The real problem comes in that the front fenders act like airplane wings and lift the front end. At 65 MPH it feels like power steering. At some point the wheels would come off of the ground but I have never been curious enough to try and find out exactly what that speed is. When you are in one of the "easy steering" modes the car is extremely susceptible to cross winds and the winds generated by semi trucks. To me the good speed is 55 and 65 in case of emergencies.

Charlie Stephens

 

[mantta]

In 1960, I was 17 years old and I had a 1930 Model "A" Town Sedan. We have a long downhill straight road not far from home that is straight for over a mile. I got that car up to 75 mph going down that hill. It was a thrill for me then but would never try it now!

 

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

38-43 Is best for my stock 31 coupe.

As far as top speed for an "A" model, I think the "A" model driver with the least amount of common sense will always have the fastest "A".

Louis,
Your statement is "classic." When getting a new car, some guys would say, "Break it in fast and it will always be fast!" (IDIOTS!) Most of our previous cars were not as fast we made like. My "fast" '46 Ford was defeated by a lowly '41 Chev. 6 cylinder. Took me a loooong time to live that one down. That was in 1954, and I remember like it was YESTERDAY. Yes! I'm insecure, like a kid with a 76 year old face.