Here’s a sharp-looking postwar cruiser that blends originality with vintage charm. This 1947 Chevrolet Fleetmaster Coupe, offered here on Facebook Marketplace, shows 75,000 miles and is powered by its original 216 cubic inch straight-six paired with a 3-speed manual transmission. It’s finished in classic black and features a dealer-installed wood kit that gives it the look of a factory woody, without the weight or cost. Said to run and drive great, this handsome survivor is located in Washington state and would make a unique weekend driver or show-and-shine cruiser.
While most Fleetmasters of the era were sold as basic transportation, this one stands out thanks to its visual flair. The exterior retains a glossy black finish that contrasts beautifully with the woodgrain trim adorning the sides. Though not a factory woody, the dealer-installed kit is a period-correct addition that adds substantial appeal. All body panels appear straight and true, and the brightwork, grille, bumpers, and trim, presents well from the available photos.
Inside, the coupe is reported to have a nice interior. While the listing doesn’t go into detail, photos suggest well-kept upholstery and clean trim throughout. The dashboard retains its stock configuration with chrome accents and a factory steering wheel. This generation of Chevrolet was known for its spacious cabin and art-deco styling, and this example appears to have been preserved rather than heavily modified.
Under the hood sits the tried-and-true 216 cubic inch inline-six, a staple of Chevrolet drivetrains in the 1940s. Paired to a 3-speed manual column-shift transmission, the setup offers enough pep for around-town cruising and vintage touring. The seller says it runs and drives great, which suggests it’s mechanically sorted despite its age. No mention is made of modern upgrades or rebuilds, but with 75,000 miles on the odometer, it’s plausible this car has simply been gently used and well cared for.
The Fleetmaster coupe isn’t the most collectible car of the 1940s, but it’s a beautifully styled machine that captures the optimism of postwar America. Add in the dealer-installed wood kit and well-maintained presentation, and this becomes a standout option for someone who wants a clean, running vintage Chevy that turns heads and tells a story.
Are those spare parts stacked up in the background?
Were those “wood kits” back then actual wood? As opposed to the 60’s 3M “wood”.
Wood framing, 3M Di-Noc for the panel inserts. They were offered for 1948, but some kits may have been installed on ’47s. There were also more recent repro versions of the kits.
Wow, what a cool Chevy! You won’t see another…
Why would you destroy a perfectly proportioned car and take away its flowing lines?
Poor man’s Town & Country.
I’m a Buick man but that’s one Chevy I wouldn’t mind owning!
The Facebook listing indicates that the car is located in Illinois, not Washington State.