Barn Find/216ci Inline 6-Cylinder/Special Deluxe/Resto Candidate

1941 Chevrolet Special Deluxe Sedan

The use of words such as "Special" "Deluxe" "Custom" "Special Deluxe" "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 (sic) car with the moniker of Special Deluxe sedan incarnation. This 4-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 slight wear in the paint in areas but maintains structural integrity and good gaps throughout despite the paint faults. She's bathed in black which maintains its shine but is well worn. Upfront we can see a 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 presenting 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 painted red pinstripe is seen in the midst of all the spears and vents, as well as the front grille badge. A flared door rocker complete with chromed trim runs between wide whites with Chevrolet badged moon caps on all 4 corners.

Interior
Light brown broadcloth velour with a smattering of brown leather, and chromed thin trimmings and levers, door panels show with some wear and dirt. For the front solid bench, with vinyl plaid seat covering is seen and is in good condition. The rear bench is the same and has plenty of legroom. Upfront looking to the dash for more inspiration is an original steering wheel, which fronts an original Art Deco inspired design dash. This utilizes rectangular gauges, horizontal chrome trim strips, and light and dark brown paint. A centrally located large mesh chrome grille is flanked by a round gauge in speedometer for the driver's side, and clock on the passenger. Rubber flooring is upfront, and in the back is light brown carpet which shows water damage. The mohair headliner shows extensive water staining and damage.

Drivetrain
The factory prescribed 216ci I-6 cylinder is under the hood and in good condition. A 1-barrel carburetor is atop, and a 3-speed manual transmission is on back. Engine bay could best be described as unrestored.

Undercarriage
Framing and suspension (independent coil springs upfront and leaf springs on the back) are all rust free, and floorpans shows light surface rust. Very structurally sound underneath with all body hangers and rockers sitting soundly with light surface rust. Drum brakes are all around.

Drive-Ability
This car does not crank, so our test drive was foiled.

Yes, it's a barn find; however she has all the right stuff for a fairly easy restoration to get it quickly to show and go quality. All cosmetic on the exterior, and interior will have to have the floors and headliner addressed. Wrench the engine, and it is your blank canvas to customize or bring back to original as you wish.

NO TITLE-SOLD ON A BILL OF SALE ONLY
Please note, this vehicle does not come with a battery.

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 600 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.