• A post-war vehicle with a modern custom twist
• Powered by a GM-tuned port fuel-injected V-8 engine
• Fitted with many modern-day creature comforts
After World War II, many American car manufacturers shifted their production from military vehicles back to civilian automobiles. The economy was booming, and there was a pent-up demand for new cars because civilian automobile production had essentially ceased during the war years as manufacturers were putting all their efforts towards the war. Chevrolet introduced the Stylemaster model in 1947 as part of its “Advance-Design” series. This series marked a departure from the pre-war designs and was characterized by its sleek, and modern look. It also proved to play a significant role in the company’s post-war success.
The ’47 Stylemaster featured a rounded body with integrated fenders, a prominent grille, and a streamlined appearance. Its departure from the more boxy and conservative designs of the pre-war era makes it instantly recognizable. The Stylemaster Sedan came in various body styles, including a two-door and four-door sedan, as well as a coupe and a station wagon. This variety allowed customers to choose the configuration that suited their needs, and the public couldn’t be happier with these options. Under the hood, the stock ’47 Stylemaster was equipped with a 216.5-cubic-inch inline six-cylinder engine, which produced around 90 horsepower. It was mated to a three-speed manual transmission, which many favored.
Quite the departure from the stock Stylemaster, this steel-bodied example has been tastefully upgraded in all the right places. Wearing an attractive red exterior, the roof was fitted with a brown cloth-like material and the wheels were replaced with chrome knockoff rims. To keep with the smooth features of the body, the door handles were shaved and a power glass sunroof was installed.
Under the hood, lies a custom twist that places this restomod Stylemaster on another level. Power is derived from a GM-tuned port fuel-injected V-8 engine which combines with the stainless steel dual exhaust to create an amplifying sound. With a bigger engine fitted under the hood, an extra-large police gas tank was also fitted. Inside, the cabin has been completely stripped and upgraded with Cadillac leather seats that feature six-way power controls. Modern amenities are far from few, as it is equipped with a Vintage Air A/C unit, a Sony CD stereo system, power steering, power front disc brakes, power windows, power mirrors, and a leather-wrapped Lecarra tilt steering wheel.
When the Grand Rapids Auto Museum acquired this Stylemaster in the Fall of 2023 from a collector in Canada via Worldwide Auctioneers Auburn Auction, it had a mere 5,000 miles on the odometer since being completed, leaving it with plenty of miles left to give. The Stylemaster Sedan, along with its Chevrolet counterparts, helped Chevrolet regain its pre-war position as a leading American automobile manufacturer. Its role in the post-war success established a design legacy that would influence future generations of Chevrolet vehicles to come.
