1936 Chevrolet Master Deluxe

Chevrolet was initially able to compete head-to-head with Ford's low-priced Model T, but by the early 1920s, they had abandoned its attempt as Ford was able to drop its prices annually whereas Chevrolet's steadily rose. Chevrolet models were repositioned as a 'middle-market' manufacturer whose products possessed a degree of refinement lacking in the Model T. Early Chevrolet vehicles relied on four-cylinder cars, and in 1929, a new range of models was introduced using the 'Stovebolt' overhead-valve six. The six-cylinder models were popular, helping GM's mainstay out-sell Ford for most of the 1930s. The top-of-the-range model was renamed 'Master Six' for 1934 and received revisions to the modern 'Airstream' body styles introduced the preceding year. The chassis utilized Chevrolet's 'knee action' coil-sprung independent front suspension, a three-speed gearbox, and four-wheel mechanical brake. Introduced for 1935 on the Master Deluxe, 'Turret Top' all-steel bodies appeared on the standard series the following year.

Over 200,000 more Chevrolet automobiles were built in 1936 than its top competitor, Ford. Strong sales were fueled by continued innovation in engineering and design. Top-of-the-line Master Deluxe models were set apart by their fuller, rounded radiator shells, front doors hinged at the firewall, and a new hood ornament. For the first time, 1936 Chevrolet models employed hydraulic brakes, a great improvement over earlier mechanical styles, and a 14-gallon fuel tank, allowing increased driving range.

Chevrolet advertised its 1935 Standard and Master Deluxe models as 'The Most Finely Balanced Low-Priced Car Ever Built.' Chevrolet pared down its range for 1936, eliminating convertibles and phaetons for the first time, as buyers were opting for the friendly confines of a closed car during the depths of the Great Depression. In comparison to 1935, the 1936 Chevrolet Standard and Master Deluxe lines both used the same 206 CID, 79 HP inline-6 engine, which meant an increase of five horses for the Standard and a one-horse reduction in the Master Deluxe. The Standard model gained two inches (to 109 inches) for its new box-girder frame that was lighter and stronger. The Master Deluxe remained unchanged, retaining the X-type frame and the same 113-inch wheelbase.

Styling revisions were mild, most notably in the form of a full turret-style roof, a new 'fencer's mask' front-grille treatment, and relocation of the headlights from the fenders to the sides of the grille.

Factory pricing for the Standard (Series FC Six) ranged from $495 to $600, and the Master (Series FD without knee action) from $560 to $665. Optional equipment included a radio, clock, heater, cigar lighter, seat covers, fender skirts, bumper guards, rearview mirror, dual sidemounts, license plate frame, and wire wheels.

The overhead valve, inline-6 cylinder engine had a Carter one-barrel carburetor, solid valve lifters, three main bearings, 6.0:1 compression, and delivered 79 horsepower at 3,200 RPM. The three-speed manual had a single-plate clutch and floor shit controls.

Chevrolet built 431,016 examples of the Standard and 499,996 of the Master.

by Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2021