In 1928 the Model A Ford was introduced to the world and became instantly popular with the public. After an 18 year run of the Model T, this was a big step forward for Ford. Unlike the Model T, the Model A had a conventional 3 speed manual gearbox and had an overall more modern design. Better described as being more luxurious than the old Model T, and for a low price. The engine was still a flathead four cylinder L-head engine, but now with almost double the horsepower of a T and a water pump. The 1928 and 1929 model years looked almost identical with a few changes between them, but they can best be described as the purest form of the Model A Ford. The early cars had the larger 21 inch wire wheels, chrome plating and handsomely designed fenders and bodies, especially on the roadsters.