Do you like antique RVs? Well, in this article, we reveal one that will knock your socks off! We look at the oldest known RV in the world.
Keep reading to learn about the RV and its history. And to make things even more interesting, it’s for sale and up for auction.
Let’s jump in!
What Is the World’s Oldest Known RV?
The world’s oldest known RV is on a 1914 Ford Model T chassis. While RVs didn’t exactly exist yet in 1914, this living space on wheels is quite innovative.
The family that owned Bentalls Department Store commissioned the Model T. Dunton of Reading, the company that developed caravans and horse-drawn carriages, produced it.
In the 1970s, a cabinet maker refurbished it. It has an iron stove for heating and cooking and a leather couch for sleeping that can hold four people. It’s still usable and everything on it works.
While the 1914 Ford Model T is the oldest known RV still intact, it wasn’t necessarily the first ever made. The RV/MH Hall of Fame claims the first RV was the 1910 Pierce-Arrow Touring Landau. It was a 66-horsepower six-cylinder large car with a seat that turned into a bed. It also had a wash basin, a portable toilet, and cooking gear under the seats. While it was very expensive at the time, they sold several, but none remain today.
Why Is the World’s Oldest Known RV Being Auctioned Off?
The 1914 Ford Model T RV was auctioned off at the National Motor Museum in the UK by the family that owned it. While the auction is complete, you might want to keep your eyes open for future news about this antique RV.
The RV was auctioned off for $75,000. It may seem low for an antique RV, but it actually went for double than many expected it would go for.
Pro Tip: Make a good RV investment by using our guide on How to Determine the Value of Used RVs.
What Is Inside the Ford Model T RV?
The 1914 Ford Model T RV has a leather sofa that serves as the driver’s seat. You can also turn it around to face the living area of the RV.
You’ll also find bunk beds in the Model T and beautiful handcrafted wood cabinetry. From cupboards to wardrobes, there is a lot of storage space.
The vintage RV also has an iron stove for heating and cooking. Additionally, you’ll find the large windows provide natural lighting. Also, there are double doors that lead to steps exiting the living part of the RV.
How Many Model T Fords Exist Today?
There are an estimated 100,000 Model Ts that exist today. You’re likely to see them at car shows around North America. And, if you’re lucky, you might see one going down the road.
While the last Model T was built in 1927, you can find each style of the car a the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan. It’s worth making the trip for car enthusiasts.
How Fast Could a Model T Go?
A Model T could go 40 to 45 miles per hour. The car ran on four cylinders, and the engine was 20 horsepower. Most of the models had a hand crank to start the engine. The crank activated a magneto which connected to a flywheel. In 1920, they did start putting battery-powered starters in some of the Model T cars.
In addition, there was a 10-gallon fuel tank. The transmission had two forward gears and one reverse. They controlled it with foot pedals.
Are There Other Ford Model T RVs Out There?
While you can find photos of other Ford Model T RVs online, it’s difficult to find one that’s currently operational. Many are in someone’s personal collection or museums.
Keeping an antique RV running and functioning is time-consuming and costly. If you own one, the chances are you’ll want to keep it preserved and stored indoors.
At the RV/MH Hall of Fame, you’ll find a 1916 Ford Model T RV with slide-outs or, as they called them back then, telescopes. It surprisingly has many features you’ll find in modern RVs, such as a cooking station, a cooler, storage, and more. One model in the series even had a shower.
Pro Tip: Wondering Should You Avoid (or not) a Used RV? We uncovered the truth!
Are Antique RVs a Good Investment?
Antique RVs are probably not as good of an investment as you may think. There’s not much you can do with an old RV except to use it and have it gain more wear and tear. Or you can put it on display somewhere, like a museum.
Some people purchase antique RVs, refurbish them, and sell them. Because an RV is still a vehicle that depreciates, it’s difficult to call it a good investment. However, the oldest RV in the world might be an expectation of the rule.
Have you ever seen a Model T? What did you think? Tell us in the comments!
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