I remember a time, probably not long after the Sedan Delivery body style fell out of favor, that they were still pretty common, and I recognized them for what I thought they were, an unusual window-blocked-out sort of station wagon. It wasn’t until later years that I recognized their cool vibe as something appropriate for a hot rod. Today’s discovery, a 1950 Chevrolet Sedan Delivery, is just that, one that doesn’t have a lot currently going for it, but the potential is there. Located in Burleson, Texas, this hearse look-alike is available here on eBay for a BIN price of $2,900.
In the modern era, Chevrolet’s sedan delivery remained in production through the 1960 model year, while in 1950, it garnered sales of 23K units. Chevrolet’s promotional material at the time described this unique vehicle this way: “Passenger car styling by Fisher makes a favorable impression and creates prestige for any business wherever it goes. The Sedan Delivery, with a passenger car chassis, is designed to carry lightweight merchandise quickly, efficiently at lowest cost. Here is the ideal model to deliver merchandise and advertise a business at the same time.” Our subject’s story isn’t disclosed other than to state it has been silent for the last 35 years and has had two owners since 1954. The exterior is in fair shape with lots of surface rust, dull chrome, and visible Bondo. Somewhere in this car’s past, it was treated to a pair of American Racing-style Torque-Thrust wheels with a front left that looks like it originated from a mid-seventies Camaro. The passenger-side fender is pretty banged up, but a replacement is included in the sale.
The sounds of silence emanate from the engine room as this car/truck delivery special as it’s a roller. It likely originated with a 92 gross HP, 216 CI in-line six-cylinder powerplant, driving a three-speed manual transmission, but I suppose that the world’s your oyster now in terms of engine selection. (I think this is the point where the “Put an LS in it!” chants start.)
Bare bones is one way to describe this SD’s interior, but then that’s how they started life – no frills here. A single driver’s seat is all that passes for accommodations, but there is a lot of room for whatever “merchandise” one has in mind for transport. At least the flooring appears to be sound, so there’s a start, but the roofline is likely too low to consider a passenger van-style buildout. The single sideways-opening rear door on this vintage S.D. always reminds me of a hearse.
OK, so now it’s “What to do with it” time. My thought is a hot rod/rat rod makeover; the lack of an engine isn’t an issue, as this Chevy will probably accommodate whatever the next owner can dream up. I guess my only thought is whether a Sedan Delivery from this era is still a popular subject for modification. I know the later fifties versions still seem to have some draw, but I’m unsure of this vintage. Anyway, what’s your thought; if this Sedan Delivery were yours, what would you do with it?
I don’t see a hearse, I see the classic painter’s vehicle of days gone by.
Nor I, I see a market delivery truck or flower shop delivery. Truck is worth the BIN for sure.
It’s that swing out rear door, and what’s left of the black finish, that reminds me of a hearse.
JO
Not a bad start for a project. That driver’s seat maybe original, the passenger seat was an option. But I doubt this one will get restored. Maybe a nice small block, 283 or 327 and a 4spd. if you want to row your own gears. Anything more and you might have to beef up the frame, these were made for a 6cyl. A lot of work ahead for the next owner but the price is reasonable. Looks like this one has the optional heater too.
No need to beef up the frame, I installed a built 350 sbc and TH350 trans in my ‘49 Fleetline. Chevy motor mounts and new crossmember for the trans. along with a 10 bolt rear from a 65 Malibu. These frames are quite capable.
I knew someone back in the 70’s who fixed up one of these. Small block Chevy with a stick it was a cool looking vehicle..
The Dry Cleaners that my mom went to had one of these. Usually parked out front when we went in.I still remember the smells of that place all these years later. At that time I was at the age where I hadn’t yet learned how to ID each year from ’49-’52. Had I known exactly what year that one was back then, I’m at the age where I probably wouldn’t remember it now.
I have a 1954 Chevy Sedan Delivery, 327, TH350, 2 doors down from me. (Runs and drives) Across the street from that is a 1956 Ford F100? Panel delivery. Big block Chevy, TH400. (Runs and drives) So I see an old delivery every day. But I still think they are cool. I don’t know what I would do with one though.
I had one of these years ago. Mine had the granny 4-speed and 216 engine. Great shape, ran good………….$400!
It’s good to also check out the ad on eBay where there are additional photos and the ability to enlarge. This sedan delivery looks solid though no under photos. No holes in the spare tire compartment. I had a 54 Chevy pickup years ago when in CA that I replaced the 235 6 engine with a later one from a 59 car for maybe $100 then. This likely came with the stove bolt 216 engine when new. Nothing wrong with finding another later 6 engine here. Check out the rear photo. It has a newer larger truck stop taillight on the driver side but just an old added reflector on passenger side. Could this have been an option to add right side light in 50?
Hi Dave in PA
A lot of 40s and early 50s station wagons had only one taillight. Dont know why they did that. I noticed the newer taillight on this and so badly wanted it replaced with the original. As for the passenger side, I’m not sure if it’s just a reflector or a light but I’m pretty sure it was added.
I too noticed the optional heater controls. Big time option way back when, along with turn signals.
Anyone else notice the bondo shaped heart on the rear door?
They put that bondo there just for you Angel! Ditto from me.
Go to the local junk yard and buy an Escalade powertrain and interior and get to work on it! OR, a 427 4 speed would be nice too with a modern interior from an LTZ Suburban, Yukon Denali, or Escalade. She’s truly a blank canvas here!
Just gab the whole car that has been crashed, but no frame damage and swap chassis and drive train as one unit. The long wheelbase Suburban/Yukon XL/ and Escalade is only 1″ longer. Easy shorten job. And then you would have all the great brakes and ABS.
I see a Gasser replica big block solid axle front up high