1914 Ford Model T C-Cab Depot Delivery Truck, 1 of a handful made in 1914
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Some of the most incredible Fords are those that were built
in the Brass Era. It's my understanding that many buyers
purchased the complete chassis and then took the vehicle to
the coach company of their choice for the body. This
C-Cab is, without a doubt, a stunning example of
craftsmanship and a testament to the beauty of Brass Era
automobiles.
This 1914 Ford Depot Delivery, also called a Panel Delivery,
is in such fine condition that it was featured in Cars & Parts
magazine in December 2000. (I purchased the car from the
then-current owner.) The wood glows, the brass shines,
and it brings a smile to everyone who sees it. There have
been a few modifications from original in order to make this
car a bit more driver friendly, but nothing that visibly alters
the car from original. For example, the car has a battery in it
now, which makes crank-starting it much easier than with
the magneto start. The taillight and headlamps are now
electric; never fear, the headlights are fitted into the brass
frames! Other additions include a water pump and Boyce
MotoMeter, for watching engine temperature.
The C-Cab spent much of its life in California - perhaps all
of its life until I got it. According to the previous owner,
this Depot Delivery is one of two made in 1914. I don't
know how to confirm that figure, but one thing is for
certain: this is a rare find! The car crank-starts with ease,
and drives well. I like to imagine who must have sat in this
truck, wondering who ordered such beautiful paneling and
what they delivered. I've actually made up a story that goes
with this truck ... In my mind's eye, I can see one of my
best friends as a boy, riding next to his grandfather as they
deliver fresh-made pasta. The smells of tomato, oregano,
and garlic waft out into the night air as the headlamps flicker
their kerosene light onto the cobblestone streets. It is a
quaint picture, and one that never happened, but it's what
springs to mind. My grandson, however, is three, and
believes very simply that this car is awesome for one reason:
he can see clearly out of the windshield while seated at the
steering wheel! Simply put, this automobile is special and
captures hearts in a way that few vehicles do.
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BEAUTIFUL 1914 FORD C-CAB A STUNNING EXAMPLE OF THE BRASS ERA
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The C-Cab's specifications, as listed in the Cars & Parts article
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Read the article about this car, as featured in the December 2000 issue of Cars & Parts magazine! (Click on each picture to get a larger view in a new window) *Note: the lettering on the truck has changed since the article was written*
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The paneling is gorgeous!
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