1906 Ford Model N Runabout

Summary

Two-seater runabouts like this 1906 Ford Model N were favored by middle-class Americans who could afford one. They were fast and rugged. Most runabouts featured one- or two-cylinder engines and bicycle-style chain drives. But this Ford Model N offered four cylinders and a shaft drive, plus it cost less. At $500, it became the bestselling car in America.

Two-seater runabouts like this 1906 Ford Model N were favored by middle-class Americans who could afford one. They were fast and rugged. Most runabouts featured one- or two-cylinder engines and bicycle-style chain drives. But this Ford Model N offered four cylinders and a shaft drive, plus it cost less. At $500, it became the bestselling car in America.

Artifact

Automobile

Date Made

1906

Driving America
 On Exhibit

at Henry Ford Museum in Driving America

Object ID

85.115.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Metal
Wood (Plant material)
Brass (Alloy)
Leather
Rubber (Material)

Color

Dark green
Black (Color)
Red

Dimensions

Height: 63.25 in

Length: 115 in

Wheelbase: 84 in

Diameter: 18 in  (Wheel Diameter)

Diameter: 3.75 in  (Bore)

Length: 3.375 in  (Stroke)

Specifications

Make & Model: 1906 Ford Model N runabout

Maker: Ford Motor Company, Detroit, Michigan

Engine: inline-4, L-head valves, 149 cubic inches

Transmission: 2-speed manual

Height: 64 inches (with top down)

Wheelbase: 84 inches

Width: 63.5 inches

Overall length: 115 inches

Weight: 1050 pounds

Horsepower: 15

Pounds per horsepower: 70

Price: $500

Average 1906 wage: $523 per year

Time you'd work to buy this car: about 1 year