The Raptor T: The Build
The Raptor T: Hand-Built Ford Model Restoration
This Ford Model T is more than a restored artifact; it is a deliberate reinterpretation of one of the most influential automobiles ever built, reimagined to be driven, used, and experienced. At a glance, it carries the unmistakable silhouette of early motoring. Beneath the surface, however, it reveals a level of engineering, craftsmanship, and intention that places it firmly in the modern era of hand-built automobiles.
Power comes from a rebuilt 1950 Mercury flathead V8, featuring a 4-inch stroke, .060-over aluminum pistons, a 3/4 Comp Race cam, Offenhauser heads, ARP stainless fasteners throughout, and new Stromberg carburetors. Notably, this was the first time the engine had ever been disassembled, rebuilt in full to ensure both performance and long-term reliability. A T5 Tremec manual transmission and clutch deliver that power with confidence, blending vintage character with modern drivability.
The chassis was newly constructed using components from a 1948 Ford F2 commercial truck, providing a foundation of strength and stability far beyond that of a traditional Model T. Riding higher than period hot rods, the car was intentionally designed to handle uneven terrain and real-world roads with ease. Large drum brakes were fully rebuilt and fitted with new lines, hoses, and a master cylinder, while cooling is managed by an electric fan, high-flow water pumps, and a Johnson’s brass radiator, capable of maintaining temperature even in 100-degree traffic. The frame and ancillary components were powder-coated for long-lasting durability.
Inside, subtle but thoughtful refinements prioritize comfort and usability, including a seat relocated four inches rearward to improve ergonomics without disrupting the car’s original character. This is not a static showpiece; The Raptor T is a car meant to be driven. In fact, it has been regularly driven on the streets of Atlanta, proving its road-ready performance and reliability.
Built by acclaimed fabricator and television host Bryan Fuller at Fuller Moto in Atlanta, Georgia, this Model T reflects a philosophy rooted in respect for history and a relentless pursuit of function, quality, and craftsmanship. Every decision—mechanical, structural, and aesthetic, was made with purpose.
What emerges is a rare balance: a century-old design brought forward with modern engineering, without losing the honesty and soul that made it iconic in the first place. The Raptor T stands as a singular example of how heritage, innovation, and craftsmanship can coexist, built not just to be admired, but to be driven.
