There are vehicles that go down in history for their groundbreaking aesthetics, others for breaking speed records, and others for their incredible efficiency. And there are some, like this unusual Ford Model T, that become unique models of motorsport due to some distinctive feature that borders on eccentricity.
In this case, it is a classic convertible from the early 20th century with an unusual wicker wrapper. Yes, you read correctly: wicker. The material with which baskets, chairs, trunks, rugs and other decorative and furniture items were made years ago, and especially in rural areas.
Produced between 1908 and 1927, the Ford Model T is considered one of the first mass-produced automobiles that was affordable to the general public in the United States. This car, which put the North American country on wheels, sold more than 15 million units.
It's been almost a century since the last unit rolled off the Ford factory assembly line, but you can still see some of these well-preserved classics driving on American roads. It is evident that most of the units no longer exist or have been abandoned, but thousands of examples are still in operation thanks to the care of die-hard enthusiasts.
The 1924 convertible we refer to in this article is one of them. Furthermore, it is practically unique, as all the body panels, from the hood and radiator grill to the doors and rear, are covered in hand-woven wicker. The person who did all of this also covered the spare tires and wheels on this Model T, and did it practically right off the production line.
According to current owner Jake Kluch, whose family has owned this Ford since the 1930s, this Model T has used wicker since it was almost new, making it an integral part of its legacy. This car was covered in wicker because the original owner was related to the Lloyd Manufacturing Company.
This company was founded in 1906 by Marshall B. Lloyd, the man who invented the Lloyd Loom, a process used to create wicker furniture and baby strollers. Like this Model T unit, the company is still going more than 100 years later, now under the brand name Lloyd Flanders.
It is believed that this Model T could have been covered in wicker for promotional use within the company, since some of its patterns can also be found in the products currently sold by Lloyd Flanders. One of the most surprising aspects is that the car has survived in such good condition to this day.
The vehicle has belonged to the same family since 1934. That is, for exactly 90 years. Apart from the rear end, which has been slightly modified, the car retains its original bodywork as well as the four-cylinder engine which, although it has been rebuilt and improved, still maintains the factory block.
This curious car is a “survivor” and a unique creation at the same time. In the video that accompanies this article you will be able to see it in detail and see how it continues to roll like the first day.
