Old school hot rods were in danger of dying out at the turn of the century, but they are experiencing a resurgence in the classic market. There could be many reasons for this, but it seems that owners feel that they want a vehicle that offers excellent performance and looks that will help their car stand apart from the modern “cookie-cutter” offerings found in most showrooms. This 1937 Chevrolet Coupe is a perfect example of this philosophy, but it needs a new home. The buyer could choose to leave this beauty untouched, although a light cosmetic refresh would lift its presentation to the next level. If you find yourself sorely tempted, you will find the Coupe listed for sale here on Bid Fast and Last. The action has been spirited to this point, lifting the price to $15,000. When you begin to appreciate what this classic offers, I won’t be surprised if that figure increases significantly before the hammer falls.

Eagle-eyed readers will note that while this Chevrolet is a 1937 model, its creator has added a 1938 front clip. It doesn’t look out of place in a case like this because it is just one of many custom touches across the entire vehicle. When we look at the car’s overall condition, it appears to be rock solid and rust-free. That doesn’t make it perfect because they are many imperfections in its black paint. These are particularly noticeable in the filler behind the rear window and around the trunk opening. There are also multiple small stone chips and marks, and there’s little doubt that the car would benefit from the cosmetic refresh. However, none of its needs are urgent, so the buyer could address them as time and circumstances allow. When we look below the surface, the underside is spotlessly clean, with no evidence of penetrating rust or fluid leaks. The chrome appears to be excellent, as is the glass. The Chevy rolls on aftermarket wheels, with 14″ on the front and 15″ on the rear. These are shod in what appear to be reasonably new Hankook tires.

This Coupe’s engine bay would originally have been home to a six-cylinder engine, but things have changed markedly since this old girl was new. The drivetrain has undergone a wholesale change, featuring a 327ci V8, a four-speed 700R automatic transmission, power steering, and power disc brakes. The engine wears a Holley carburetor, headers, and a dual exhaust with Magnaflow mufflers. It isn’t clear whether there have been any internal modifications to that sweet V8, so its power output would be a matter of speculation. One thing is for sure, and that is that this car should go a whole lot better now than it did when it was new. Looking around the underside reveals many new suspension components, including tubular suspension arms, rack-and-pinion steering, upgraded shocks, and other parts. It seems that whoever created this classic was looking at a total package of power, handling, and safety. It isn’t clear how well the car runs or drives, but if the visual appearance is any indication, the news should be positive.

If I am disappointed by any aspect of this Chevy, it is its interior. There’s nothing radically wrong with it, and it remains serviceable as it currently stands. However, it has a certain disjointed feel about it. The seats feature gray cloth and vinyl trim, but this doesn’t match the custom upholstery on the door trims. The carpet is a different shade again, while the headliner is red. There’s no evidence of physical damage or problems, although I think the seats would benefit from a deep clean. If the buyer wanted to retain the interior untouched, it would be fit for purpose as it stands. The dash appears excellent, with the cluster loaded with vintage-look MOON gauges. It isn’t short of creature comforts, including air conditioning, cruise control, a leather-wrapped tilt wheel, and an upgraded stereo with a CD stacker. That should make life on the road a pretty pleasant experience.

While I am a traditionalist, I find a lot to like about this 1937 Chevrolet Coupe. It isn’t perfect, but it does appear to be ready for somebody to slip behind the wheel and enjoy the experience of owning a traditional hot rod. Its needs are not urgent, so the buyer could enjoy this classic during the upcoming warmer months and attend to its cosmetic needs during the depths of winter. The drivetrain combination means that the car should be essentially bulletproof and reliable, which is always an enormous attraction in any custom build. Determining where the bidding will end will always be difficult in a case like this, but if it passes $25,000, I won’t be surprised. If you are in the market for a hot rod, this auction might be worth watching closely.