Kevin Rowland with his third Model T Ford
Vintage cars boasting vibrant colours and impressive designs lined the carpark outside 33-Degrees on Sunday, but it was a more discreet black 1922 Model T Ford that drew quite some interest.
Nicknamed the Doctor’s Coupe for its all-weather protection and large boot space, ideal for doctors’ equipment, this two-seater car dominated the American market in the early 1920s.
It was the cars’ popularity that attracted owner and Model T aficionado Kevin Rowland, who displayed his own at the monthly ‘coffee and cars’ event.
“They’re just beautiful, these cars,” Mr Rowland said.
“Everybody had a Model T years ago, so I got a love for them and I stuck with it.
Mr Rowland bought the car for US $8,300 on eBay 12 years ago and had it shipped from the US to Australia.
He said it was in good condition when he bought it, but he’s done a lot of mechanical work with the engine and transmission.
“It was running well before but I’ve made it better.”
“I’ve done 11,500 miles in it since I’ve had it.”
It’s the third Model T in Mr Rowland’s possession and fourth vintage car, the first of which he bought when he was 17.
“The original one I bought for 30 pounds. I pulled it all to bits and I got frustrated with it trying to put it back together, so I bought this,” he said.
“I also inherited a 1916 Model T and I was building a very early 1912 so I’ve got a lot of work to do in my retirement.”
Mr Rowland is a member of the Veteran and Classic Car club.
His Model T comprises one of more than 300 antique cars in Esperance, according to club president Paddy Ratcliffe.
Mr Ratcliff said the club has 109 members and hosts group car adventures and shows.
“There are so many cars in sheds around Esperance and the only time you see them is at school balls, but this is bringing a lot of the cars out.
“It gives a lot of the blokes a good chance to talk amongst one another which is good for men’s health and all that sort of stuff,” Mr Ratcliff said.
“It’s just something where everyone can get together and we can all enjoy the old cars.”
He said he was happy with the turnout on Sunday and encouraged others to join the club.
