1932 Chevrolet Confederate Roadster
Despite the bleak year, Chevrolet managed to produced what is often considered among the most outstanding Chevrolets ever, the Confederate Roadster. Rather than undertake massive redesign of their 1931 model, Chevy focused on engine and styling improvements, and came up with 117 of them. Among the most important improvements was the Synchromesh transmission, which allowed easier gear changes effected by matching the speed of the gears before bringing them into mesh.
Marketing of these new cars reflected the state of the times, offering what Chevy called the Great American Value; free inspection and adjustment at 500 miles, free inspection every 1,000 miles and replacement with no charge for parts.
Specifications: 60 horsepower, 194 cubic inch, 6-cylinder in-line engine. Price New: $485. Weight: 2,480 pounds. Top speed: 70 MPH.
Connections: A working cutaway model of the Chevrolet Model CA six cylinder engine used in this car is on display in the Museum’s Engine Room.
Compare to 1931 Ford Model A Roadster.
Donated by the Sowles Family
Accession no. 1997L01.
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