The First Chevrolet: The Series C Classic Six

Chevrolet Series C Classic Six

Chevrolet was officially founded as a company on November 3, 1911 by cofounders Louis Chevrolet, William C. Durant, and their investment partners William Little and Dr. Edwin R. Campbell. The prototype for Chevrolet’s very first model the Series C Classic six was actually ready for several months before the company was officially incorporated.

The Series C Classic Six was designed by Etienne Planche with specific instructions from Louis Chevrolet, a Swiss race car driver. Produced from 1911 to 1913, the model was also known as the Chevrolet Classic Six, the Chevrolet Model C, and simply as the Chevrolet. The Chevrolet was large, stylish, and expensive and Louis Chevrolet adored the model. His partner, Durant wanted to produce a more affordable option.

The Chevrolet featured the brand’s very first engine: a liquid-cooled six-cylinder cast-iron block that was cast in three banks of two and had a T-head configuration. It produced 40 hp. The engine in the front of the vehicle was paired with a three speed gearbox with a cone clutch that was located at the rear axle.

It was able to reach speeds of up to 65 miles per hour and was highly competitive with other performance based models of the era. Other standard features include a starter, a folding top, a cowl light, electric headlights, and a tool box.

The new vehicle closely resembled European automobiles with its low running boards and silver accents. The body of the vehicle and the chassis and wheels were Chevrolet blue with the hood, fenders, and splash aprons painted black. The body and wheels featured light gray striping.

After Chevrolet himself left the company after several years, Durant went on to produce much less expensive vehicles with four cylinder engines that were much more competitive with Ford’s Model T.

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