1930 Ford Model A & 1932 Ford Hot Rod
The Ford Model A was the successor to the successful Model T but a completely different car that did not carry-over any parts from the Model T. The car was the first Ford to have controls like the ones we’re used to such as a gas pedal and a manual gear shift. The 1932 Ford Hot Rod, on the other hand, often had a V8 engine, and was generally souped up after World War II. I interviewed Mr. Garth Flint who owns these two antique cars.
Why did you buy it?
My first car when I grew up was a Model A. I had paid $15 for it when I was around 14 with two of my friends. I always wanted to get another one so I purchased the Model A. I also really wanted a Hot Rod.
When and how did you get it?
I bought the Model A about 15 years ago. It came from Oregon and it was in pieces. There were parts from other cars in it too! There was a fender from one car, the hood from another and more. I took it to a guy in Los Angeles whose hobby was fixing them. I bought the Hot Rod about 10 years ago from a guy in Fresno who had about 50 of them. He’d go out in the farmland or countryside and find one in a barn to fix up.
What is your favorite thing about it? Why?
I like the fact that the Model A is easy to drive, it's easy to work on and everything’s easy. The Model A is very uncomplicated but very reliable. Although there is no heater, blinker, or radio, these cars were driven across the United States. It was built to survive!
I love that everything’s changed up in the Hot Rod. The person who fixed it made it all fancy, they do the inside, and then it goes really fast because it has a V8 engine.
What is your least favorite thing about it? Why?
The Model A doesn't have a radio, so you can’t just sit and listen to the news or songs.
There aren’t many people who can work on the Hot Rod so if it breaks down, you have to take it somewhere farther than our local repair shop.
How do you take care of it?
You just need a toolbox to fix the Model A. It’s that simple. On the other hand, I have somebody I take the Hot Rod to who knows how to fix it.
If you could change one thing, what would it be?
For the Model A, I wish I could take the top down on nice days when the sun is out. Unfortunately, in the 15 years I had it, I never figured out how to do so.
Both these cars are more than ninety years old, but still have a smooth ride. Special thanks to Mr. Flint for this interview and sharing his unique and stylish cars!