1930 Model A Sport Coupe
In 1959 my father who wanted an old car to drive, asked me if we should get a go-cart or a Model A. As a thirteen year old I had no idea what a Model A was but I knew it was bigger than a go-cart and I figured it would go faster. I said the Model A. We purchased it at the Standard Oil station on the corner of Maple and Telegraph in Birmingham, Michigan for $150. The same price as a go-cart. After a tune-up and a new vinyl top, we brought it home. My dad and I had no Idea how to fix the car, but he knew how to start and drive it. He gave me shifting and driving lessons in our driveway and in parking lots. I got some books and started working on the car. Occasionally I was able to fix things on the first try. The Model A got one of the garage spaces so my dad’s car sat outside.
I took my drivers test in the Sport Coupe in 1962 and began using the car as a daily driver. I found out shortly thereafter that my parents always knew where I had been. Their friends would report any time they saw the car parked at someone’s house.
After 50 years of ownership my dad confided in me that he thought we would keep it 2 to 3 years and sell it. I have had it to many of the National meets. The farthest meet I drove it to was in Branson, MO over a 4 day period. I still enjoy driving and fixing it.
Steve Burton