The Ford Barn

Geokop · 04-22-2026, 05:52 PM

Hello again, Everyone,
I may have the opportunity to purchase a highly original 1913 Touring car. Two major pluses going for it in my book are the engine has only about 100 miles on a professional rebuild by a well-respected, experienced rebuilder and the radiator is new from Brassworks. As of this moment I don't know the state of the car's other systems, thrust washer, etc. but that's beside the point for now.
OK, I said, "highly original" and from the photo I've seen at least the seat upholstery (maybe the whole interior) screams just that; it's very cracked and well-worn.
I poked around on Classtique's website and saw that one could choose between vinyl or leather material, both done in the same pattern as the original material however leather seat material kit is about $1,600 more than the vinyl. Would an owner be shooting himself in the foot by opting for the less expensive vinyl? Any serious advantages of going with leather? More, or less durable? More upkeep? I do like era correctness and the extra cash wouldn't kill me, but for trips to the grocery store, getting ice cream cones, or driving to local cruise-ins (maybe giving rides) or picnics in the park, is leather overkill? Does leather bump-up a car's desirability or "wow" factor?
Hey, I could keep it original and throw a blanket over the seats as well and call it a day!
Your thoughts are appreciated.
--Geo. K.

04-22-2026, 05:52 PM	#1
Geokop Member Join Date: Sep 2023 Posts: 44	Seat Material Choices Hello again, Everyone, I may have the opportunity to purchase a highly original 1913 Touring car. Two major pluses going for it in my book are the engine has only about 100 miles on a professional rebuild by a well-respected, experienced rebuilder and the radiator is new from Brassworks. As of this moment I don't know the state of the car's other systems, thrust washer, etc. but that's beside the point for now. OK, I said, "highly original" and from the photo I've seen at least the seat upholstery (maybe the whole interior) screams just that; it's very cracked and well-worn. I poked around on Classtique's website and saw that one could choose between vinyl or leather material, both done in the same pattern as the original material however leather seat material kit is about $1,600 more than the vinyl. Would an owner be shooting himself in the foot by opting for the less expensive vinyl? Any serious advantages of going with leather? More, or less durable? More upkeep? I do like era correctness and the extra cash wouldn't kill me, but for trips to the grocery store, getting ice cream cones, or driving to local cruise-ins (maybe giving rides) or picnics in the park, is leather overkill? Does leather bump-up a car's desirability or "wow" factor? Hey, I could keep it original and throw a blanket over the seats as well and call it a day! Your thoughts are appreciated. --Geo. K.