When automobiles made their first appearances, it wasn't long before pedal cars followed. The history of these toy cars goes even back to the 1890s and most were modelled from real cars at that time.

By the turn of the century, many children longed for one. Unfortunately, they were so expensive that they were only playthings the wealthy kids.

History

vintage pedal cars

The very first pedal cars created at the end of the 1800s, were handmade wooden models, but from the 1930s, metal-bodied versions became popular. Modeled after the real cars then seen on the roads, these small cars allow children to actually "drive" a car, just like an adult in a real car (well, not on the road of course). Like Hot Wheels and Matchbox, these iconic toys remain popular today, both with a new generation of kids and with adult collectors.

Interest in vintage pedal cars in the USA has grown to an unbelievable level in the past years.

Manufacturers

There were five well known early manufacturers:

In the 1920s and 1930s, luxury pedal cars were bought by the wealthy, and it's very difficult to find a vintage one in really good condition. Some real size car collectors are selling their cars and going into vintage pedal car collecting, since there is little maintenance to them.

Soviet pedal car USSR

Of course, the very early models are expensive to buy because of their history -much the same as any classic car- but there are now many models available in reproduction format, often built to the exact specification and quality of their counterpart models.

Pedal cars of the 1920s and 1930s are a big part of our history. They have moved from sidewalks into our living rooms for decorating, displays etc. They are nice to admire under the Christmas tree, in the dining room or in the hall. Wherever you place your car, it will always attract the attention of others and become a focal point of conversation. Nowadays a lot of classic models are re-produced.

Links

Updated: 23 April 2019

Pedal Car forum

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Comments (14)

Diane - April 30, 2019

I have my 1950 comet peddle car blue with yellow wheels and steering wheel in pretty fair shape. Wondering what its worth. Also have a Sears Trac peddle tractor with trailer and a fire engine both 60's that belonged to my son they are both working but definitely played with. Both red and have on the side Full Ball Bearing. I think they are all Murray's Any idea on price? Thanks!
►reply: One Murray Comet was sold for 570 USD on eBay in 2013, the Sears I have no idea, but maybe you can find it on this page, Murray tractor. For the fire trucks look here for prices: Murray Fire Trucks.

Tom - April 24, 2019

I have an AMF Fire Chief pedal car that has me curious because,in researching it, I found only one photo of it whereas the standard 503 has hundreds of pics and much info.The one pic I found referred to it as a " Starfront" model. The profile of this car is noticeably more rounded on the fenders and has a star-like emblem in the center of the grille. Any one know why there is so little info out there on this car? Please educate me on what I have/ Thanks
►reply: I have no idea, but maybe other visitors... Let's wait and see!

Wesleyc - March 7, 2019

I purchased a vintage Jeep peddle car. I’m looking for input on what it looked like and if it had any accessories. I need a few parts also.
►reply: Have you tried Google images? Not sure about parts, try the links in the description above.

Omar - January 15, 2019

I have a 1960 vintage pedal car fire truck 508

Gary - December 12, 2018

Hello, Need Help To Idenify A Firetruck Pedal Car From The Late 1950's ... LF is on The Side Front With Fire ( Fire Helmet Image) Then Chief. Curved Loop Bell On Top Front.white Wheels With Metal Silver Hubs. Any Help With Who Manufactured Would Be. Appreciated. Maybe Midwest Company? Thank You
►reply: Also try the link in the description of this page for identification.

David - March 6, 2018

Hi, I have a Prewar Gendron Atom Sidewalk bicycle with sidecar. I need a replacement windshield, seat, and top bow rail for the sidecar. Anyone?? Beuler...Beuler...Beuler?
►reply: I asked Ben Stein but he didn't know either :-)

Doug - December 30, 2017

I have a probe 3 need lexan windshield.and dash board sticker
►reply: Not sure, but you could try a few links I mentioned in the text above for parts and decals.

Bob - November 6, 2017

I have tri-ang formula 1 type pedal car colour:Black/Gold i would be interested in getting it valued with regard to selling same.
►reply: Hi Bob, no idea, but you can try and ask here: facebook.com/chasingpedalcars1.

Mark - October 3, 2017

Hi I have a 1923 lines bros London vauxhall for restoration if anyone is interested
►reply: Anyone interested can react through here and I'll forward. If you're in a hurry I recommend eBay.

Megan - August 11, 2017

I have eight pedal cars for sale including a Kidillac,If you are interested in seeing what I have in this site is still working please email me back
►reply: I'll let you know if anyone is interested Megan!

Carol - January 16, 2016

i have a 1949 Austin pathfinder pedal car for sale want about 7000 us

John - June 19, 2013

I have a Gendron pedal car with 1874 on it also number plate with number 6_637 it is mainly wood with wire spoked wheels it is in need of restoration could you advise me of its value . Kind regards John

Randy - April 2, 2012

Need plastic wheel w/ rubber tire for TALA BANDEIRANTE 1950s MGTD pedal car made in Brazil.

Ernie - September 15, 2010

I have a pedal car that was made in the late 30's or early 40' it is in fair condition...
Is ther anyway I can find out it's value....

Thank you for your time and trouble....
Ernie