Chevrolet Master Deluxe Business Coupe
The Chevrolet Master Deluxe Business Coupe was a distinctly purposeful automobile. In an era before air travel became commonplace and when America's sales economy ran on rubber tires and shoe leather, the business coupe was an essential tool for the traveling salesman. Chevrolet's version, built from 1939 through early 1942, was among the most popular examples of the breed.
The 'business coupe' designation indicated a specific body style: a two-passenger coupe with no rear seat, the entire space behind the front bench being given over to an enormous trunk. This cavernous luggage area could swallow sample cases, catalogs, and demonstration equipment with ease, making the car perfectly suited for salesmen who needed to carry their livelihood with them.
Mechanically, the Master Deluxe Business Coupe was powered by Chevrolet's legendary 216.5 cubic-inch 'Stovebolt' inline-six, producing 85 gross horsepower. The engine was mated to a three-speed manual transmission with column shift — 'three on the tree.' This combination was thoroughly proven, offering excellent reliability and reasonable fuel economy that kept operating costs manageable for businesses.
The Master Deluxe represented the upper trim level of Chevrolet's passenger car range, positioned above the more austere Master 85. Deluxe touches included chrome grille accents, stainless steel trim, a glovebox lock, dual sun visors, and improved interior appointments. The 1941 model brought a significant redesign with a wider, more modern body that would serve as the basis for Chevrolet's post-war cars through 1948.
Production of civilian automobiles ceased in February 1942 as American industry converted to wartime production. Many of the last 1942 models were purchased by the military or by essential civilian workers who received special purchase authorization.
Today, the Master Deluxe Business Coupe is appreciated by collectors for its clean lines, practical proportions, and honest character. The business coupe body style has a unique charm — its long deck and compact cabin give it a sporty appearance despite its commercial purpose. Well-restored examples are attractive and usable classic cars that remain relatively affordable compared to their more glamorous contemporaries.
Check for rust in the floor pans, rocker panels, lower fenders, and trunk floor. The Stovebolt inline-six is robust and parts are readily available. Verify the engine number matches the car's model year. The column-shift manual transmission is reliable but check for worn linkage. Chrome and stainless trim are available as reproduction parts. Look for previous accident damage, especially in the long rear deck area. The 1941-42 wide-body cars are more popular with street rod builders; earlier narrow-body cars have a more traditional appeal. Original tools and accessories add significant value.
Chevrolet was America's best-selling car brand throughout the late 1930s and early 1940s. The Master Deluxe was the premium trim; the Master 85 was the base model. The 1941 model year brought a complete restyle with a wider body, new grille, and updated interior. Civilian production ended in February 1942 for the war effort. The business coupe body style was not revived after the war, as the sedan delivery and station wagon took over its commercial role.