Information on 1935 Ford Rumble Seat

Rumble seats were used on several 1935 Ford car models.

Rumble seats were fold-out seats located on the rear decks of early cars. They were extensively used in the 1920s and 1930s. The seats were popular in the Ford Model A automobiles. The upholstered single or double seats were open to the wind and elements. They were discontinued after 1939.

History

A rumble (or rumble-tumble) originally referred to an uncovered luggage compartment or servant's seat in the rear of a horse-drawn carriage. The 1909 Ford Model A runabout featured a rear open-air "Mother-in-law" seat. Rumble seats were first used in cars of the 1900s and were discontinued by 1939. The seats were made obsolete by faster cars that made safety an issue.

Models

Rumble seats were an optional feature on the 1935 Ford coupe models. They were commonly found on the popular three- and five-window coupe models, especially on the deluxe trim level cars. 1935 Ford roadster and cabriolet body styles also offered a choice between a rumble seat or a trunk.

Function

Rumble seats were often found on two-passenger 1935 Fords. They provided temporary seating for extra passengers. The seats were recessed into trunk-back-style cars. They were latched down when not in use to prevent disruption of the car's streamlining.

References

• Concept Carz: 1935 Ford Model 48 Eight
• Old Car and Truck Pictures: A Picture Review of the Ford Motor Company
• Crazy 4 Cars: Rumble Seat

Resources

• Model T Ford Forum: Rumble Seat