1934 Ford Model Fourteen Saloon de Luxe
Registration no. IU 2518 (Irish Registration)
Chassis no. BF 5281174

The early 1930s were a period of significant developments for the Ford company as it sought to keep its products up-to-date and commercially competitive. A very successful flathead V8-engined car was launched in 1932 with accompanying freshly-styled bodywork, designated as the Model 18. But there was still a place in the Ford line-up for a four cylinder car and the Model A's replacement became the Model B, sharing the eight-cylinder car's chassis (which had a longer wheelbase than the Model A) and body style and incorporating a revised version of the Model A's 3.3 litre engine. A smaller-engined version was produced in the UK at Ford's recently-established Dagenham factory, fitted with a 2,043cc engine rated at 14.9hp. This car was marketed as the Model Fourteen, Ford's 1934 catalogue proclaiming it 'A British car in every detail'. Two all-steel bodies were available, a two door Saloon and a four door Saloon de Luxe which boasted a sliding sun roof. Leather upholstery was available as an optional extra. The engine was claimed to produce 40 brake horse power at 3,000 rpm and the catalogued further claimed that 'The Ford Fourteen was the first car in its class to incorporate synchronised gear change', this being a key selling point to those drivers fearful of a crash gearbox. The Fourteen was well equipped, with standard equipment including direction indicators and twin windscreen wipers.

The car offered here, part of a large private collection, is an example of the desirable Ford Fourteen Saloon de Luxe. In restored condition, the Model Fourteen's engine, chassis, paintwork, transmission and electrics are now described as being in very good condition, with 'excellent' bodywork and the interior retaining much originality including nicely patinated leather upholstery and dashboard instrument panel featuring a speedometer by Cooper Stewart of London recording 46,048 miles. The car currently carries the Irish registration plate IU 2518 and at the time of cataloguing a copy of its First Registration Certificate was being sought. This most attractive and distinctive Model Fourteen is truly worthy of joining any collection of pre-war Fords.