Which Year

Like an old man's underwear, it depends. I used to like the 28, 29 models because they look more old fashioned. But now I like the 30, 31 models because they look more modern. I also like the roadster when I was younger because they are more sporty, but now I like the Fordor sedans because I can bring my friends along in comfort. I guess tastes change as you get older.
 
The "best"? 1928 with its many, many forged parts that later were cheapened to stamped. Ford bean counters did some post-production figures on the cost of each Model A produced and discovered FoMoCo was losing $129 on each Phaeton it sold to dealers. Ford lost money on almost all body styles in 1928. From 1928 on, the parts were cheapened to save a buck. Some designs didn't work out as planned, such as the multi-disc clutch, so when a mechanical change was needed, Ford made it, but almost always with a cheaper replacement, i.e., single disk clutch and flywheel, electric windshield wipers replaced by 50 cent vacuum wipers (I made that figure up), stamped chassis parts instead of forged, and so on and so on. The '28 Model A had its design shortcomings, for sure; but for quality of the parts that went into it, I vote for the 1928 as being the "best". Later years looked better, but were loaded with cheaper parts.
Marshall
 
For me, I like the '30-31. I think they have more room (may be perceived?). Of body styles, I prefer the Fordors of all years, except maybe the Slants.
 
I use to like the 28 and 29's best but over the years I have changed my mind. I like the 1930 best of all mainly because the gas valve got moved out under the hood on the 1931 models. That made it unhandy to turn off every time you got out to shop or visit or what ever. Don't get me wrong I like them all, just 1930 is my pick.
 
"best" is too subjective. Best for hauling a family or farm products? Best for a couple or family of 4? Best because it used forged v stamped parts?
Best has to be a personal choice of body style since all have proven despite how the parts have been made or where the gas shut off is they have lasted nearly 100 years.
 
Y-Blockhead said:
For me, I like the '30-31. I think they have more room (may be perceived?). Of body styles, I prefer the Fordors of all years, except maybe the Slants.
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ModelA29 said:
"best" is too subjective. Best for hauling a family or farm products? Best for a couple or family of 4? Best because it used forged v stamped parts?
Best has to be a personal choice of body style since all have proven despite how the parts have been made or where the gas shut off is they have lasted nearly 100 years.
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Can't argue with that point of view. That's why I wrote "for me". The '30-31 Fordor is still the best... for me.
 
Don't know about the year but for me the Phaeton line up through out the production run was the most stylish. I am going to own one some day!
 
Y-Blockhead said:
Can't argue with that point of view. That's why I wrote "for me". The '30-31 Fordor is still the best... for me.
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True I was trying to show it's very subjective and personal taste when everything under the skin is basically the same. I always liked Coupes BEST so that's what I bought. Found a nice Tudor for sale for 3-4 grand under what it's worth here in SoCal so I added that one because it was the BEST price. My dad always thought the Victoria was BEST so one of those will probably find it's way home. Then of course I'll need to add a roadster because it's BEST for those summer day cruises along PCH.
NOW for the real question - which oil is BEST?
 
rfitzpatrick said:
Of the 4 year run -- which year/model was the best (not the most popular).
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I think the topic starter meant the best manufacturing quality?


I worked in quality control at the Ford factory in the 70s - 80.
When a new model came onto the market, it was well equipped. Occasionally had teething little technical problems. Over the years of sales, some weak points have been improved. But there were also savings on equipment. One less chrome strip, simpler instrument switches, less on-board tools, more plastic, less leather. Savings were made on small things that were mostly inconspicuous.
The bottom line is that at the end of the series the technology was better, but the equipment was poorer.
 
To me, the 1931 steelback Victorias were the best. They had all of the earlier innovations straightened out, were larger, and being steelbacks, they avoided issues with top material on the sides and back. Plus, the back seats were sufficient for adults and they had great storage in the "bonnet".

Overall...if I had to pick "the best" Model A for practicality and for comfort and style...it's that one.
 
I like the 1930 before the gas valve went under the hood and with the early style dash panel. Picking a best body style is tough, there are several favorites but my wallet and storage facilities preclude that eventuality. :)
 
I prefer the 30/31 styles, more modern. I always have liked open cars. My touring car is a slant T/S, for fun and around town you can't beat a roadster or RPU (IMHO).
 
Some years ago, the late Roger Kaufman was asked that question, and he replied,

"Whichever Model A I happen to be in at the time."
 
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