1980 Ford Shay Replica, Model A Roadster
Owners: Bernie and Janice Taulborg Collection
Original cost: $9,995.00
Engine, etc.: 2.3 litre
This car is an authentic reproduction of the 1928 – 29 Model A Roadster mounted on a 1980 – 81 Ford drivetrain. The fiberglass body was made directly from the original Model A Roadster so it is an exact duplicate.
The replicas were built to order with no production surplus. Production was limited to 10,000 for U. S. sales. About 3,500 were made by September, 1980.
It is about 700 lbs. lighter than the 2.3 litre engine was designed for and was rated at 24/38 mpg. The drivetrain, suspension, steering and brakes are 1980 – 81 Ford and the car could be serviced by any Ford dealer. It had a 12,000 mile or 12 month warranty.
The standard roadster cost $9,995.00, the deluxe and super standards were $10,595.00, and the pick-up model was $11,995.00.
The car is named after Harry J. Shay, a 30-year veteran automotive engineer who introduced Detroit mass production/lower cost techniques and expertise into the automotive reproduction industry.
Shay Motors filed for bankruptcy in 1982. The bankruptcy records stated that 5,000 roadsters had been produced. Camelot Motors Inc. purchased the equipment, etc. and restarted production. From 1982 to 1993 Speedway Motors, Lincoln, Nebraska sold a roadster kit car it called the “Modern A”.
Source: https://www.shaymodelaclub.com/shay-history
See also: https://www.shaymodelaclub.com/1980-roadster (Original dealers’ brochure)
