Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid cherishes a piece of family history—a 1928 Model A Ford. This classic car, known for being Ford’s successor to the iconic Model T, carries deep sentimental value for Reid. Walter Reid, Andy’s father, purchased the car for $25 after World War II, and it has remained within the family ever since. Even decades later, Reid not only restored the car but also maintains it as a valuable heirloom to pass down to future generations.
The story of this classic vehicle begins with Walter Reid, who drove the 1928 Model A Ford for nearly five decades. The car, initially costing around $460 in the 1920s or about $8,400 today, became a symbol of familial continuity. After Walter's passing in 1992, Andy Reid inherited the car and decided to restore it. Using his bonus money from the 1996 Super Bowl season, Reid embarked on a restoration journey that would last approximately a year.
The restoration process was meticulous. Reid completely disassembled the car, refurbishing or replacing parts as needed, including the engine and wood panels. The endeavor was not only a labor of love but also a significant financial investment, as restoring such a classic can cost upwards of $40,000.
Andy Reid's dedication to preserving this family treasure is evident not just in the restoration but also in his intention to pass it to future generations. He fondly recalls how his father added extra horns to the car to draw attention while driving his children around. This personal touch has been preserved alongside the car's restored glory.
In his commitment to family history, Andy Reid reflects on the importance of such heirlooms.
"That's what it's all about: being a dad, loving your kids and then having a chance to present a history to them," – Andy Reid
After completing the restoration, Reid transported the car from Los Angeles to Wisconsin.
"I brought it up to Green Bay," – Andy Reid
His efforts did not go unnoticed. Marty Mornhinweg, a fellow football coach and friend, remarked on the vehicle's transformation:
"I saw that car before he started and I thought it should be in a junkyard," – Marty Mornhinweg
Today, the restored Model A Ford occasionally rolls out for a spin, continuing to be enjoyed by Reid and his family. His son, Spencer Reid, had the opportunity to drive it as a teenager, further cementing its role as a cherished family artifact. The car's historical and sentimental value is matched by its market worth; recent sales of similar models have ranged from $16,800 to $99,000.