1917 Ford T

The Ford Model T is an iconic American automobile that was manufactured from 1908 to 1927. The 1917 Ford Model T is a particularly notable year, as it was the last year of the "three-pedal" configuration, which included a separate handbrake lever.

Under the hood of the 1917 Ford Model T is a 177 cubic inch (2.9-liter) inline-four engine, which produces a modest 20 horsepower at 1,800 RPM. The engine has a bore and stroke of 3.75 inches by 4 inches and is fed by a single updraft carburetor. The engine is air-cooled, which means there is no traditional radiator or water pump. Instead, a series of fins on the cylinder head dissipates heat into the air.

The Model T has a 2-speed planetary transmission that is operated by two floor pedals and a hand lever on the steering column. The left pedal is the clutch, the middle pedal is the brake, and the right pedal is the reverse. The hand lever is used to select between high and low gear. The Model T also has a separate handbrake lever, which operates the rear drum brakes.

The suspension on the 1917 Model T is a simple transverse leaf spring setup in the front and a transverse leaf spring and solid axle in the rear. The car rides on 30-inch wooden-spoke wheels, which are wrapped in 4.75-inch wide by 30-inch tall bias-ply tires. The steering is a simple worm and wheel system.

The 1917 Model T is not a particularly fast car, with a top speed of around 40 miles per hour. However, it was incredibly reliable, easy to repair, and affordable, making it a popular choice for American motorists at the time. Despite its simplicity, the Ford Model T was a significant technological advancement in the automobile industry and paved the way for the modern car.