In the Garage: 1928 Model A Ford Tudor

THE CAR AND ITS OWNER
1928 Model A Ford Tudor sedan owned by Sal Miliotto
WHAT MAKES IT INTERESTING
By the mid-1920s, Henry Ford’s legendary Model T was getting long in the tooth and Americans clamored for a more advanced, yet affordable new car. They got it in the form of the hugely popular Model A, built from 1928 to 1931. “The Model A was introduced as the ‘New Ford Car,’” says Miliotto, “and the cost new for a Tudor Sedan was $495."
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THE CAR AND ITS OWNER
1928 Model A Ford Tudor sedan owned by Sal Miliotto
WHAT MAKES IT INTERESTING
By the mid-1920s, Henry Ford’s legendary Model T was getting long in the tooth and Americans clamored for a more advanced, yet affordable new car. They got it in the form of the hugely popular Model A, built from 1928 to 1931.
“The Model A was introduced as the ‘New Ford Car,’” says Miliotto, “and the cost new for a Tudor Sedan was $495. The Model A was designed by Henry and his son, Edsel, and was available in a wide variety of car and truck body styles. Upgrades included a three-speed transmission, hydraulic shock absorbers and four-wheel mechanical brakes. The 1928 Model A was the first car to wear the Ford blue oval logo.”
HOW LONG HE’S OWNED IT
Since 1990
WHERE HE FOUND IT
“I was at a graduation party for a good friend of our family’s son,” Miliotto says. “My friend told me about his neighbor, who was selling an old car. We walked over to take a look at it and I had no interest when I first saw it. I went back with my son a week later to take a second look and the next thing I know, I’m buying the car.”
CONDITION
Miliotto says his Tudor “was about 80 percent restored when I bought it and with the very appreciated help from my Model A car club, the car is in excellent condition. Over the years, I purchased new tires and have had the engine rebuilt.” The name of his granddaughter, Marisa, is pinstriped on both doors.
TIPS FOR OWNERS
“Drive your car every chance you get,” he advises. “For older cars like mine, always carry a tool kit and spare parts in case you experience that unwanted break.”
VALUE
Miliotto estimates the value at $19,000.
THE BOTTOM LINE
“My wife, Marianne, and I just love driving the Model A,” he says. “We even dress of the era -- flapper dress, Tommy gun and all. We attract a lot of attention. We take our grandchildren in the car with us to all shows and events.”