Ford C11ADF facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ford C11/C11ADF |
|
|---|---|
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Ford Canada |
| Production | 1941 - 1947 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | Station wagon van convertible (staff car) |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 239 cubic inch V8 |
| Transmission | 3-speed gearbox |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 114 in (2,900 mm) |
| Length | 195 in (5,000 mm) |
| Width | 79 in (2,000 mm) |
| Height | 75 in (1,900 mm) |
| Weight | 4,230 lb (1,920 kg) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | 1937 Ford |
| Successor | Ford Transit 4x4 |
The Ford Fordor, officially known as the Ford C11ADF, was a special military station wagon. It was used during World War II, especially in the North African Campaign. These vehicles often had openings in the roof. Some versions were even built without a roof, like a convertible car. The Ford C11ADF was used for carrying cargo, moving soldiers, and as staff cars for officers.
Contents
What was the Ford C11ADF?
The C11 was based on the look of the Ford station wagons that people drove in the 1940s. However, it had a much stronger frame. This frame was designed to handle rough roads and tough conditions. This made it perfect for military use.
Built for Tough Jobs
The Ford C11ADF was built by Ford of Canada. Parts for these vehicles were also sent in special boxes, called knock-down kits, to places like the United Kingdom and Australia. There, they were put together.
What kind of engine did it have?
The C11 used a version of the Ford V8 engine. This same engine was also found in other military vehicles. For example, it powered the British Universal Carrier and the Fordson WOT truck. This was very helpful because it meant that friendly countries could easily share and swap parts.
An Early SUV?
You could think of the C11 as an early version of today's Crossover SUV. It combined the style and comfort of a regular car with the ability to drive off-road. This made it very versatile for different uses.
After the War
Production of the C11 stopped in 1945 when World War II ended. But in the United Kingdom, a slightly changed version was still made for regular people to buy until 1947. This was one of the last big cars based on American designs that Ford made in Britain. Later, Ford in Europe started focusing on much smaller cars. It took almost 40 years before Ford made another off-road van in Europe, which was a 4x4 version of its popular Transit van.
