1941 Chevrolet Special Deluxe Sedan
The use of words such as "Special", "Deluxe", "Custom", "Special Deluxe", and "Custom Deluxe" hit an all time high in the 1940's with every other manufacturer using these descriptive monikers for the naming of their car. Some of these were associated with trim levels, others were the actual name of the car, denoting overall quality. Even though there were many thousands of examples of each model in the public domain, the individual owner was led to the premise that they were literally the only one driving this model of car!
For consignment, a unique car with the moniker of Special Deluxe for this sedan incarnation. This dependable and unrestored 2 door sedan is well apportioned with curved chrome, rounded aerodynamic body panels to cut through the wind, and interior comfort to suit even the most discriminating of clientele. In the era of the molded into the body exterior fenders, this car does not disappoint, in utilizing the latest technology and machining of the time, while still mass producing on a large scale.
Exterior
Sporting its original body metal and chrome trim, the exterior shows wear in the paint in areas, including crazing and cracking, scratches, and some peel off that has begun to rust underneath. Also, plenty of paint bubbling and fading is noted throughout the finish. Structural integrity is maintained and good gaps are seen throughout despite the paint faults. She's bathed in Constitution Blue Metallic which still shines a bit but is well worn. Upfront we can see the surface rusted chromed "Groucho Marx" mustache style grille which is flanked by molded into the fender bullet style headlights with chrome bezels. These are molded mostly into the front fenders, and the turn signals are presented just below in a bezeled rectangle next to the grille. The original chromed vented trim for the hood joins up with a spear that runs the length of the car to the rear. Nice thin chrome trim surrounds the tinted glass all around and all the bumpers and their mountings show a little rust and dimpling. Aerodynamic Art Deco inspired design is utilized for the trim with a speeding train for the hood ornament, and above headlight front quarter trimmings. A flared door rocker complete with chromed trim runs between black walls with Chevrolet badged moon caps on all 4 corners. A shout out to the bumpers which sport extra vertical spires with the front bumper for some extra dress up.
Interior
Worn and torn tan mohair with a smattering of worn brown leather and chromed thin trimmings and levers, door panels show with some wear and dirt. Snazzy two tone bakelite knob toppers are throughout and even on the dash. For the front split bench, with its striped broadcloth which wraps beautifully curved, but worn and tattered seats and backs. For the backs and sides, a complimentary mohair show with some wear but no punctures in this material. The rear bench is the same and has plenty of legroom. Upfron t, looking to the dash for more inspiration is an original steering wheel which fronts an original Art Deco inspired design dash. This utilizes round gauges, horizontal chrome trim strips and light and dark brown paint with the top showing in an angled faux wood grained metal. A centrally located large mesh chrome grille is flanked by a round gauge of the speedometer for the driver's side, and clock on the passenger. An original radio with various knobs and pulls resides below this grille. Flooring is black painted steel throughout and shows as rust free. The headliner is mohair and shows some water staining along with a few tears.
Drivetrain
The factory prescribed 216.5ci inline 6-cylinder is under the hood and in good condition. It presents in an overall oiled machined quality but do not be fooled it has been well maintained. A 1-barrel carburetor is atop and a 3-speed manual transmission is on back. Engine bay could best be described as unrestored, but all in working condition.
Undercarriage
Framing and suspension, (independent coil springs upfront and leaf springs on the back), are all showing light surface rust. Very structurally sound underneath with all body hangers sitting soundly with light surface rust and some notable invasive rust on the inner rockers. Drum brakes are all around. No structural problems for this undercarriage.
Drive-Ability
She fired right up and ran like a Swiss watch with nice smooth acceleration, good handling and bias free drum braking. All functions save for the wipers, clock and heater blower were working during the duration of our drive.
No its not perfect, however she has all the right stuff for a fairly easy restoration to get it quickly to show and go quality. All cosmetics on the exterior, and interior will have to have the floors and headliner addressed. Mechanically sound, all chromed up and definitely bowtie early 40's Art Deco design influenced. Picture this in your driveway.
14AH1222490
14-Baltimore, MD Assy Plant
AH-1941 Special Deluxe
12-December Build
22490-Sequential Unit Number
TRIM TAG
STYLE 41 1011-1941 Special Deluxe 2 Door Sedan
BODY M9229-Baltimore Body #
TRIM 116-Tan Striped Pile Fabric
PAINT 294-Continental Blue Metallic
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 850 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display. This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.
