1980 Shay

Year:	1980
Make:	Shay
Model:	Super Deluxe Roadster
Price:	$11,900

Description:

The Shays were a unique car for the Ford Motor Company.  It was designed to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Model A, the automobile that truly launched the mass production of cars in this country.  Shay was to produce 10,000 of these cars and Ford planned to sell them through their dealerships.  Ultimately 5,000 were built and delivered between 1979 and 1980, but Shay went into bankruptcy and never built the balance. 

Our award-winning Shay is a 1980 Super Deluxe model with only 23,000 original miles that originally sold for approximately $12,000.  It is equipped with dual side mount spares on wire wheels and dual running board step plates.  To the casual observer, this car looks just like a Model A.  However, it does what the Model A’s could not do: travel on modern highways at speeds that matched the rest of the traffic. 

This is a yellow bodied car which is accented with black fenders, a black traveling trunk and a black convertible top.  The condition of the paint and top are good, particularly when one considers that they are 30 years old.  There is one piece of wood in the top (see picture) that probably should be replaced, although this isn’t the type  of car that will see much inclement weather.  The upholstery is black vinyl in both the cabin and the rumble seat.   

Rumble seat?  Yes, this car has a rumble seat that makes for an enjoyable ride for your passengers as you pilot this car down the road.  When it isn’t in use, the rumble seat compartment allows for the storage of luggage, groceries or whatever you choose to take along.  This Shay has a period-correct reproduction storage trunk fitted on the rear bumper, complete with leather straps.  Apart from additional storage space, this trunk is perfect for bringing along a picnic lunch or going to a tailgate party! 

Mechanically, these cars were produced with a modern Ford drive train and suspension.  Ours features a Ford 4-cylinder engine and 4-speed transmission.  The Shay’s engine starts right up and shows plenty of power to propel this car right along.  The transmission shifts easily, making for a pleasant driving experience.  The car is light on its feet and the steering is easy for both men and women alike.  There is a slight vibration in the front, probably owing to an alignment need.  Since all of the mechanicals came from ‘80’s Ford Pintos and Fairmonts, repair of these vehicles is simple and straightforward. 

These are fun cars that have all of the nostalgia of the Model A era with the dependability and convenience of a more modern Ford motor car.   It is fun to drive and is distinctive in looks.  While primarily intended as a good-weather open tourer, it has a simple-to-operate vinyl convertible top to deal with that unexpected rain shower.  When you look at this car, your first instinct is to pack a picnic lunch and head for a quite spot with a bamboo fishing pole.  It takes you back 80 years ago when life—and automobiles—were simpler.