Accounting for a mere 3 percent of all Chevrolet's produced for 1949, this Chevrolet Deluxe Convertible is one of 32,392 convertibles to roll off the assembly line that model year. The 1949 Chevrolet lineup was the first production lineup within GM to receive new styling after the war. Utilizing prewar models was still common in the late 40s, due to machinery that was already paid for and the fact that metal stocks were in especially short supply. By 1949 the American public hadn't seen a newly designed passenger vehicle for almost seven years and the masses were beginning to stir with anticipation. The Chevrolet Deluxe was slated to be the brand-new, upper-class model, and styling changes for the Chevrolet would include a drastic reshaping of the hood and front grill along with additional changes to the fenders and roofline. Chevrolet had such success with the new designs, finishing the year as America's top-producing automaker. The new car was given 11-inch drum brakes, front suspension stabilizers and a full instrument panel as part of mechanical upgrades. The car is finished in Regal Maroon and is fitted with a power-operated beige soft top, matching fender skirts and a chrome driver's-side spotlight. Chrome accents are present and include a Deluxe hood ornament with a red insert, stone guards and rocker-panel moldings, front and rear bumper guards with extensions, trim rings and Bowtie center caps. The two-tone red-vinyl and beige-cloth interior is in great condition along with the matching carpets and door panels. Interior options include a contrasting beige steering wheel, cigar lighter and ashtray, radio, clock and heater. The engine compartment is fairly clean and houses a 216 CI inline 6-cylinder engine mated to a 3-speed manual transmission with a column-mounted shifter. Power from the engine is sent to the maroon-painted steel wheels mounted with bias-ply wide whitewall tires. This is a beautiful example with many of the desirable creature comforts of the day.
