1919 Chevrolet Series 490 Tourer

When William Durant returned to the automobile business (after being pushed out of General Motors), he enlisted his friend, racing driver, and engineer, Louis Chevrolet. They brought a light car called the Little to market, but their ideas for the company's direction began to split. Durant wanted a more substantial automobile, while Chevrolet saw the need for a car that could compete with the Fords of the day.

The first real Chevrolet-engineered car made its debut in 1912. It was called the Classic Six, and it weighed nearly 4,000 pounds and had a base price of $2,250. A smaller, less-expensive car soon followed. In 1914, the Chevrolet Series H was introduced. It was offered as a 4-door Tourer or a Roadster. Power was from a reliable 170.9 cubic-inch, overhead-valve four designed by Arthur Mason. This engine would be the mainstay for Chevrolet for many years, lasting into the late 1920s.

The Chevrolet Series 490 made its debut in 1916 and had a wheelbase that measured 102 inches. It received its name from its initial retail price. By 1919, the Model 490 was available with electric starting and electric lights for an additional $60.

Production of the Series 490 would continue through 1922. By this point in history, it had become an icon from the years of Chevrolet's rapid growth. Its durability and sophistication allowed Chevrolet and Mr. Durnat to take a chunk out of the Model T market.

This particular example is painted black with green trim, including the dashboard and wheels, and a black interior. It features wooden wheels, a rear-mounted spare, a black fabric top, a dashboard with Chevrolet gauges, and a Stewart Speedometer.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2017