As modern cars have become more and more computerized, the world of vintage and classic car collecting has exploded into a massive industry. But comparing a brand-new Honda Civic to obvious collectible masterpieces like a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Gullwing" is really almost impossible. Going back even farther, early cars like a 1931 Ford Model A are almost hard to conceive of as vehicles that can drive on the road. And yet, as Hemmings has covered in a story, these early pieces of history can be quite a labor of love.

Recover and Restore

Restored Ford Model A 2
via Hemmings

Hemmings recently revealed a feature in the January 2020 edition of Hemmings Classic Car that tells the story of one man's resurrection of a 1931 Ford Model A. The owner, David Conrad, discovered the car in 2014. It had been stored in a trailer after being crushed by a tree. But somewhere beneath the grit, grime, and destruction, Conrad saw hope, telling Hemmings, "The top part of the rear window opening was actually touching the bottom of the opening. Everybody kept telling me, there’s no way you can fix that—but the more they said it, the more I thought: I can fix that.”

Modern Touches

Ford Model A Restored Engine Bay
via Hemmings

Of course, bringing a vehicle from 1931 back to life is one thing—bringing a partially destroyed vehicle from 1931 back to life is a whole different game. And then there's the element of daily utility; how much fun would it actually be to drive such an outdated piece of technology almost a full century later? Well, Conrad's build didn't just involve repairing the crushed frame, body, and cab. He also added a few modern touches to help bring the car into the 21st century.

Related: Hemmings Find: Iconic 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge

Living Life

Restored Ford Model A
via Hemmings

Conrad's Model A uses a modern starter, breakerless ignition, and a 12-volt alternator. While the exterior and interior certainly look impressive, perhaps more so is Conrad's description of putting the car to a high-speed test: he was able to get up to 45 miles per hour, as clocked by a cop with a radar gun. With straight-cut gears in the rebuilt, original transmission, plus what's described as "stiff suspension and quick steering," Conrad seems happy putting about 500 miles per year on his restored classic.

Source: Hemmings

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