To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' The Boeckmann Collection | Online event, 4 February 2027.
Offered Without Reserve | $40,000 - $60,000 USD
- Distinctive and desirable C-Cab bodywork
- Featuring “Early Time Delivery” in western script by Porterville Sign Co.
- Powered by a small block Chevrolet V-8 engine
- Button-tufted bench seat with bus-style steering
- Rear delivery section features inward-facing button-tufted bench seats
The affordability of the Model T sparked the birth of hot rodding, starting in the pre-war era with Speedsters and Gow-jobs. After World War II, the iconic “T-bucket” craze truly took off. These hot rods featured stripped-down Model T roadster bodies sitting on completely modernized underpinnings. Low to the ground, heavily customized, and typically V-8 powered, they quickly gained a massive following as an easy affordable way to have some fun.
T-based builds remained popular DIY option well into the 1970s, and over the years build expanded into other classic Model T body styles like the Phaeton, Delivery Vans, and the famous C-Cab. All these variations remain celebrated in the hot rod community, so much so that Mattel has honored these legendary builds with numerous Hot Wheels releases over the years.
This Model T C-Cab Delivery hot rod is finished in a brilliant shade of yellow with subtle framed pinstriping and a tan top, proudly displaying “Early Time Delivery” in western script on each side by Porterville Sign Co. It features early Ford brass headlights, a radiator shroud, and sideview mirrors. However, aside from those vintage touches, the Moto Meter winged radiator mascot, and the C-Cab body, everything inside and underneath is anything but a standard Model T.
This T is powered by a small-block Chevrolet V-8 sending power rearward to an upgraded rear end with coil-over suspension. It rides on chrome “knock-off” wire wheels with hydraulic drum brakes. The interior features a vertical, bus-style steering with a wood-rimmed steering wheel, button-tufted bucket seats, and a custom console housing Stewart Warner instrumentation, various toggle switches, a Kraco AM/FM radio with cassette with speaker neatly tucked under the driver seat. Beyond the double-doors on the delivery end are button-tufted bench seats on either side with backrests extending to the roofline. Completing the exterior are chrome cowl lights and taillights, along with matching chrome windshield support rods, running board step plates, and front and rear bumpers.
With its bold color combination, aggressive raked stance, and western-style “Early Time Delivery” script, this looks like a vintage Hot Wheels car brought to life, built for the road and guaranteed to turn heads at car shows or while cruising down Main Street.To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/auctions/bc27/.