1947 Chevrolet Fleetmaster

Description

Some hot rods just focus on the basics and seem to get everything right. This 1947 Chevy Fleetmaster convertible coupe, for example, isn't trying too hard to look this cool, and with LT1 V8 power and a handsome interior, it's fun and comfortable with all the little stuff all sorted out. Isn't that how it's supposed to be?

Bright red sure isn't a great way to stay under the radar, but given how well-executed this rod is, perhaps they wanted to show off a little bit. The '40s Chevy look was incredibly stylish, with fenders that stretched into the doors making the cars look longer and lower than ever. Much of the trim on this particular car has been shaved, including the door handles, beltline trim, and license plate bracket on the trunk, but the overall shape is instantly recognizable, even from a distance. Finish quality of that bright red paint is quite good with a brilliant shine, and it really is exactly the right shade of red. Good gaps suggest a car that has never really been rusty or wrecked, as well as quality workmanship during the build. Custom tricks include the painted headlight rings that give the illusion of frenched headlights, contrasting red paint on the remaining chrome pieces, and some tasteful pinstripe art in the usual locations. They also left just enough chrome on the car to make it sparkle, and the grille, bumpers, and other brightwork is in excellent condition.

With so many rods that aren't...quite...finished when they hit the market, this one is highly polished inside, where you'll find a functional tan interior that looks OEM-grade. Bucket seats with a center armrest are wide and easy to get comfortable in for a long haul, and the gorgeous door panels incorporate the original hardware. The entire dash was restored using billet aluminum panels for a consistent look, and the layout was designed for convenience, making this a very easy rod to drive every day. Features include A/C, a tilt steering column, and an AM/FM/CD/iPod stereo system with speakers throughout the interior. Clean gauges look almost OEM in the dash and the A/C vents were nicely integrated rather than stuck on underneath. A full back seat makes it practical as well as fun and the trunk is upholstered to match. A coordinated tan top fits well and folds easily, stowing underneath a custom boot that was made from the same stuff as the seats.

A 1991 Chevrolet LT1 V8 provides motive force, and it's definitely been dressed for show. Almost everything you can see up top was either painted bright red to match the body or chrome plated to sparkle. Cars like this show off build quality in the way hoses and lines are routed and the overall functionality of the car itself, and this one succeeds in a big way. Turn the key and it starts. The engine runs without hiccups and the TH350 3-speed automatic clicks through the gears without hesitation. The chassis was finished to match the body and offers rack-and-pinion steering, dual exhaust, and a 10-bolt rear end with highway-friendly gears inside. It sits right without being so low the ride gets abusive and the tallish 215/70/15 blackwall tires on chrome 5-spoke wheels give it a traditional look that fills the fenders properly.

Classic looks, updated performance, and pro-built quality all make this very affordable little Chevy a slam-dunk. Call today!