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.
