#repost On June 23, 1909, a Ford Model T was the first to cross the finish line in an ocean-to-ocean race from New York City to Seattle. Always looking to promote Ford Motor Company, Henry Ford claimed the race would “give Americans an opportunity to appreciate the vast possibilities of the motor car.” The competition forced racers and their vehicles to endure axle-deep mud, quicksand, navigational issues, fires, heavy snow and frequent repairs. The Model T’s smaller frame made it an underdog in the eyes of many, but its lighter weight actually proved advantageous, as it had a stronger weight/power ratio. Additionally, Ford had dealers across the country, which allowed the racing Model T to receive repairs more quickly than its competitors. The publicity from this race would help make the Model T, less than a year into production at the time, one of the dominant cars of the early 1900s. Bonus: the winning Model T (pictured) was actually disqualified five months later after officials learned its engine was replaced during the race. Thankfully for Ford, news of the Model T’s supremacy in the race already spread, subsiding any major backlash toward the car. #thisdayinautoheritage _________________________ #nextgendragracers #doorslammers2 #mountainmotormafia #racing #history #henryford #share https://www.instagram.com/p/CBx3pzDnDbG/?igshid=j0d2qpbcw22f