Gateway Classic Cars of Philadelphia
195 Ninth Avenue
Runnemede, NJ 08078
"Gateway Classic Cars of Philadelphia is proud to digitally present this rare and extraordinary 1916 Ford Model T Speedster Racer, built from the ground up as a track-spec racer in its era, and preserved today as a nearly museum-quality example of early American motorsport. Its riveted plate tag-""SYVERSON CABT CO. DES PLAINES, ILL - #434""-signals its heritage and authentic workmanship in period style.
From first glance, this Model T commands attention. The exterior shell is deeply black, matched with black leather seating and accented by red wire wheels with period-correct bias ply tires. Every component of the body and chassis is consistent with what would have been used in 1916 or during early race modifications, reflecting a build with no modern conversions-only faithful restoration and preservation.
Mechanical & Performance Details:
Engine: Inline 4-cylinder flathead (L-head) engine
Transmission: 2-speed planetary (direct manual control) transmission
This particular car includes a clever historical racing detail: it can start and run off either battery or magneto, with an auto synchron / spark coil switch to allow electric start when desired-an advanced feature for its time and a true nod to the ingenuity of early motorsport engineering. The dual-start capability would have allowed drivers to choose whichever system was more reliable on a given day, an important edge in endurance and competition settings.
The car's body tag from Syverson Cabinet Company in Des Plaines is a noteworthy historical feature. Syverson was known for crafting wood bodies and body components for Model T restorations and custom builds, and its name carries prestige among T enthusiasts.
Condition & Authenticity
What makes this Model T exceptional is its matching, authentic components-no modern replacements or aftermarket conversions have been used where original-style parts exist. Every rivet, every panel, and every mechanical linkage has been kept or restored to the period appearance and function of a 1916 racing machine. The interior leather is supple and correct in feel; the red wire wheels and bias ply tires echo true early-racer aesthetics.
Over the decades, this car has been preserved with care, and its originality and consistency make it a rare find for collectors, vintage racers, museums, or historic car tours. The fact that it remains fully functional-starting, running, and drivable-speaks to the authenticity and mechanical integrity of the restoration.
Key Features & Highlights
Built-era race car: engineered in 1916 for track use
Riveted Syverson Cab Co. body tag (#434, Des Plaines, IL)
Period-correct black exterior with black leather seats
Red wire wheels with bias ply tires
Matching, authentic original parts
4-cylinder flathead (L-head) engine
2-speed planetary transmission
Dual-start system: battery or magneto, with spark coil switch
This is far more than a vintage car-it is a piece of early American racing history, a living artifact from an era when automotive competition was raw, pioneering, and full of spirit. For collectors, museums, historic racers, or anyone with a passion for vintage speed, this 1916 Model T offers a rare opportunity to own a true period race car that embodies the ingenuity and excitement of early automobile competition.
The 1916 Ford Model T is listed by our Philadelphia Showroom and can be viewed in greater detail including 100+ HD pictures and an HD video at www.GatewayClassicCars.com. For additional information, please call our knowledgeable staff or email us - Our Philadelphia Showroom is located at 195 9th Avenue Runnemede, NJ 08078.
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| Year: | 1916 |
| Make: | Ford |
| Model: | Model T |
| Mileage: | 0 |
| Exterior Color: | Black |
| Interior Color: | Black |
| Trim: | Speedster Board Track Racer |
| Body: | |
| Stock: | 1962-PHY |
| Engine Size: | 4 Cylinder |
| Transmission: | 2 Speed Direct Manual |
| Vin: | 3129536 |
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Gateway Classic Cars is honored to have opened its 14th location just 20 minutes away from downtown Philadelphia and airport. The 63,000 sq. ft. facility will cater to all local enthusiast Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Do not hesitate to contact our professional team, we are ready to assist you with all of your car buying and selling needs.
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