Cars that changed the world – the Model T Ford

It is fair to say that advances in transport, engines and automation have contributed significantly to and, dare we say it, changed the world.

Therefore, we are dedicating our next exhibit, running from Sunday 10 November to the end of February, to Cars That Changed the World.

So, what do you think should be on display?

Our vice president and assistant secretary, Peter Quennell says three game-changers that should be included are Volkswagen, the Model T Ford and the Ford V8 engine.

“The Model T Ford was the first vehicle to be produced on an assembly line, which made it far cheaper and affordable for many more people. This meant for the first time it was possible for many people to travel easily from place to place by motor car,” Mr Quennell said.

“The Ford V8 engine wasn’t the first V8 produced but it was the first to be cast in a single piece, and at a price the general public could afford.

“And the Volkswagen is an iconic brand that has lasted for over 50 years with two of the most iconic vehicles ever produced, the Kombi Van and the VW Beetle, which have been loved and lauded for generations, and will continue to be so for generations to come.”

For Citroën fan, executive member Duncan Malcolm, the Traction Avant, 2CV and DS “contributed a fair bit”.

The Traction Avant pioneered three revolutionary innovations on the European mass car market: front-wheel drive, four-wheel independent suspension and the use of a crash resistant, unitary, monocoque body. The car was also one of the earliest mass-producers of rack and pinion steering.

The Citroën 2CV was designed to help motorise the large number of farmers still using horses and carts for transport in 1930s France. A combination of innovative engineering and utilitarian metal bodywork, it was low cost, simple to maintain, low fuel consumption and had light off-road capability.

The DS, launched in 1955, set new standards in ride quality, handling and braking as the first mass-production car equipped with disc brakes. It is also noted for its futuristic, aerodynamic body design.

Just a tip – there will be both a Citroën Traction Avant and a Citroën 2CV included in the exhibition.

“The VW Beetle and the Mini should also be included of course,” Mr Malcolm said.

“The latter provided the basic layout for any modern-day cars and revolutionised the packaging of mechanical components, people and luggage space ratios.

“Then there was the 1947 Cisitalia 202, with its body design by Pinin Farina, which had a huge influence on the shape of cars … where do I stop?”

Mr Quennell added that a great line-up of vehicles had been organised for the exhibition, but that the GVC was keen to know what their members and the public thought should be included.

“We would love to hear other people’s thoughts on the vehicles that changed the world. Everyone can share their ideas on our Facebook page.”

As per usual, we will launch our Cars That Changed the World exhibit on Sunday, 10 November with a display day at the GVC. Entry to the grounds is by gold coin donation and entry to the Museum is at a discounted rate of $10 for the day. As always, children 15 and under are free.

Everyone is welcome to bring along their own special vehicles for the display in the grounds. Trophies will be presented on the day for the best exhibit.

We are located at 1A Sale Rd, Maffra, and is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 10am to 4pm, and every day in the school holidays. Admission is $15, $10 concession and children 15 and under free.

For more information and updates, follow our Facebook page facebook.com/gippslandvehiclecollection.

Cars that Changed the World – Duncan Malcolm with his Citroen 2CV