1916 Chevrolet Series 490

The Series 490 received its name after the price of the roadster and touring body styles. First introduced late in 1915, it would remain in production until 1923, when a new Chevrolet naming scheme was introduced. By 1923, the cost of the base model had increased to $510, with the top-of-the-line Series 490 four-door Sedan selling for $875.

There were two body styles available on the Series 490 in 1916, a roadster and a touring car priced at $490, and both devoid of a left front door. These were simple, utilitarian vehicles at an affordable price and powered by a four-cylinder engine. The engine displaced 171 cubic inches, had overhead valves, three main bearings, solid valve lifters, a Zenith one-inch double-jet carburetor, and produced a modest 24 horsepower. The engine was backed by a selective sliding three-speed transmission with a cone-type clutch and floor-mounted gear-shift controls. External contracting brakes handled braking on the rear wheels. Wood-spoke artillery wheels were at all four corners.

The windshield was vertical and lacked side splash guards. A top, a top hoop, and a windshield were included in the purchase price. Options included electric lighting and a starting system which boosted the price to $550. If this option was selected, they were fitted with a Connecticut automatic ignition system rather than a magneto. Other options included a front bumper, spare tire, Moto-meter, Southern gauge, and an outside rearview mirror.

The standard equipment on the Series H included the items found on the lower Series 490, plus demountable rims and a speedometer and ammeter. The Series 490 rested on a 102-inch wheelbase, while the Series H had a larger, 106-inch platform.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2008