1935 Chevrolet Standard

Description

Now that a lot of us have families, larger hot rods are starting to make a lot of sense. Take this 1935 Chevrolet Standard 2-door sedan for example: lots of room, a decent back seat, and still carrying all the upgrades you'd want in your next rod. And contrary to what you've been taught, some sedans look downright awesome when given the full treatment.

A little historical footnote, but 1935 was the last year before "turret top" construction, and it still has that old-fashioned look that separates the early cars from the later, more aerodynamic cars. Upright and formal, this 2-door sedan was one of the most popular Chevys in '35 and shows off its Art-Deco influences throughout, a look that hasn't gone out of style and probably never will. Finished in deep blue, it's attention-grabbing without being too flashy, and it works very well. The body is 100% GM steel with reproduction fiberglass fenders to capture the true full-fendered look. For being finished ten years ago, fit and finish are quite good, and both doors close with that distinctive sound that only vintage cars demonstrate. You'll note the original fabric roof insert is gone, replaced by a skillfully integrated steel roof with reinforcing ribs that look great. Most of the original trim's still in place, too, including the lovely waterfall grille, bumpers, and scrolled door handles that look like miniature works of art, even on a Chevy.

The interior sticks with traditional hot-rodding style, offering updated bucket seats up front and the original bench in back. The handsome blue fabric and vinyl upholstery is intentionally gathered and pleated to add some definition, and the rear seat has been embroidered with "35 Chevy" just in case you didn't know what you were looking at. The same materials cover the door panels and offers an art-deco pattern that's neither too ornate nor too plain, and it all remains in outstanding condition thanks to quality workmanship. The original dash has been dressed up with Stewart Warner instruments, with a Vintage Air A/C system neatly tucked underneath. A tilt column carries a billet and leather steering wheel, and for entertainment, there's an AM/FM/CD stereo in an overhead console with integral speakers tucked into the kick panels. It's showing some minor signs of use, but this is a rod that you can jump in and go any time so it's not a surprise.

The most critical ingredient in any rod is the powertrain, and this Chevy delivers with a 350 cubic inch V8 that has been neatly wedged between the flowing front fenders. Offering 4-bolt mains and topped by an Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor, it gives this vintage sedan the moves of a muscle car. It's also neatly dressed with plenty of chrome, a stainless steel firewall, and neat plumbing and wiring that stays out of the way. A big Walker radiator keeps things cool, while underneath you'll find power rack-and-pinion steering and front disc brakes, so it drives quite nicely. A 700R4 4-speed automatic transmission means cruising is simple, and the dual exhaust system features a mellow sound that doesn't get annoying on long trips. A Ford 8-inch rear end offers highway-friendly gears and it sits on painted Rally-style wheels with trim rings and hubcaps all wrapped in staggered 215/70/14 front and 255/70/15 rear whitewall radials.

A well-built rod that needs no excuses, this '35 Chevy combines plenty of style and performance with the space to take the family with you. Call today!