The Model A Ford had the gas tank in your lap - it was between the hood and the windshield and the instrument panel was mounted to the back of it. My older brother and I (age 14) bought a 1929 Roadster Pickup to drive to school, and I drove it and a 1928 Sport Coupe until I was in my mid-20's. Other than the filler cap being a little hard to reach, it was never a problem.
The only problem I ever heard of a Model A gas tank was reported by a fellow who had pumped gas in the 1930's. It was a hot day and the windshield had been tipped open at the bottom, which was they way cool air was vented in. A lady was sitting in the passenger seat. She lit a cigarette and then flicked the still-burning match out through the gap at the bottom of the windshield, straight through the column of vapor coming out of the open cap and hose nozzle as the tank filled. She died in the explosive fire, and the pump jockey who told me the tale received serious burns.
Mike
The one basement is pretty cleared out at this point . 3 roll arounds , a radial arm saw and a Diacro shear is left . And a 30 ton hydraulic press , and tons of wood . I have a 2 year old AirTemp/Goodman AC unit down here that I have to get rid of now also . Re-arranged the garage yesterday in hopes of some things leaving this summer . My basement ? We won't go there . 
I like the heat pumps so far . Bills are higher but no longer a slave to the oil delivery company .
