Ford Model Y
The model 'Y' Ford was an instant success, but like any new car it was modified and improved during its lifetime. For the first 14 months the original model with a short radiator grille was produced, this is known as the 'short rad'.
After this in October 1933 the 'long rad' model, with its longer radiator grille and front bumper with the characteristic dip was produced. By gradually improving production efficiency and by simplifying the body design the cost of a model 'Y' was reduced to £100, making it the cheapest true 4 seater saloon ever. Both 4 door (Fordor) and 2 door (Tudor) saloons were produced and these could be had either with a fixed roof, or the slightly more expensive sliding 'sun' roof.
Also offered was an attractive 5cwt van which proved very popular with small businesses. Ford did not produce an open top car because it was thought that the chassis was too flexible, however several specialist coach builders produced a range of attractive model 'Y' tourers. Some 175,000 model 'Y's were produced worldwide and the 'Y' and 'C' Register has knowledge of approximately 700 survivors.
The larger and faster 10hp Model 'C' never sold in such great numbers as the Model 'Y' although there was a very attractive factory produced tourer. In 1935 the styling was enhanced with some small modifications and the model was designated the 'CX'.