How many 1941 Chevrolet convertibles were made?
The exact production figure for 1941 Chevrolet convertibles is not published as a single official count by Chevrolet, and estimates vary among credible reference works. Most reputable sources place convertible production in the tens of thousands, though the precise number depends on the model mix and source. This article reviews what is known, how figures are derived, and the range that researchers commonly cite.
Context: Chevrolet convertibles in 1941
In 1941, Chevrolet offered its main passenger-car lines with several convertible bodystyles, reflecting the era’s popularity of open-air motoring. The two principal convertible configurations from Chevrolet that year were aligned with the Styleline and Master DeLuxe lines. These convertibles represented a relatively small share of Chevrolet’s overall output, which included sedans, coupes, and other body styles.
Chevrolet’s convertible lineup for 1941
The 1941 convertible offerings were centered on two notable lines, each with its own trim and features. This list highlights the primary convertible models historians associate with that year.
- Styleline Convertible
- Master DeLuxe Convertible
These two models collectively comprised most of the year’s Chevrolet open-top production, with the exact split varying by year and trim level. The convertible options were popular with buyers who valued a more upscale presentation and the open-air driving experience, even as they carried higher price tags relative to some sedan counterparts.
What sources say about 1941 Chevrolet convertibles
To understand the published totals, researchers consult catalogs, archival material, and enthusiast compilations. The following sources are commonly referenced when discussing 1941 Chevrolet convertibles.
- The Standard Catalog of American Cars 1941-1948 (Kowalke, American car production reference)
- GM Heritage Center archival data and production statistics
- Hemmings Motor News and related historical car references
- Chevrolet owner clubs and enthusiast databases that compile model-by-model production notes
While these sources converge on the existence of two convertible lines for 1941, they do not always publish a single, definitive figure for total convertibles across all body styles. Discrepancies can arise from which models are counted (two- versus four-door convertibles, or transitional body styles), regional production variations, and the inclusion (or exclusion) of special-order or fleet conversions. Enthusiasts typically rely on cross-referencing multiple sources to arrive at a defensible estimate.
Estimated totals and ranges
Because the primary published records do not present a simple one-number answer, researchers generally provide a range rather than a precise count. The most commonly cited estimates place 1941 Chevrolet convertible production in the tens of thousands, with a commonly referenced range around the mid-teens to mid-twenties of thousands when considering all convertible configurations across the Styleline and Master DeLuxe lines.
These ranges reflect the aggregated totals from standard catalogs, archival excerpts, and enthusiasts’ compilations and are used as a practical best-available figure for historians and collectors rather than an official Chevrolet tally.
Why the numbers vary
Several factors contribute to variation in published figures. First, the exact scope of what counts as a “convertible” can differ—some sources include only two-door convertibles, while others attempt to factor in additional body-styles or regional builds. Second, production reporting from early 1940s automakers sometimes grouped totals differently or omitted certain low-volume configurations. Finally, revisions in cataloging practices and new archival finds can shift estimates over time as historians reassess primary documents.
Conclusion
In summary, there is no single official published figure for the total number of 1941 Chevrolet convertibles that all sources agree on. Most credible reference works place the figure in the tens of thousands, with a commonly cited practical range reflecting model mix and reporting differences. For researchers and collectors seeking a precise number, cross-checking multiple authoritative sources—particularly the Standard Catalog of American Cars and GM Heritage Center records—is advisable.
Summary
1941 Chevrolet convertibles were produced in two main lines—Styleline Convertible and Master DeLuxe Convertible—with a production total that experts typically describe as tens of thousands. The exact number varies by source due to how “convertible” is defined and how production data was reported in the era. For a precise figure, consult multiple archival references and catalogs that compile model-by-model production data.
What is the rarest Chevy from the 1940s?
The 1945 Chevy Fleetline is one of the rarest and most historically significant Chevrolets ever built. Produced in extremely limited numbers due to the final year of World War II, civilian car manufacturing was mostly halted from 1942 to late 1945 as U.S. factories shifted to wartime production.
How many 1940 Chevy convertibles were made?
11,820 Chevrolet convertibles
General Motors built 11,820 Chevrolet convertibles for the 1940 model year. All these cars were built at the GM plant in Flint, Michigan.
How much is a 1941 Chevy worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $19,900 for a 1941 Chevrolet Special Deluxe in good condition with average spec.
Which was the only four door convertible car built by Cadillac in 1941?
Series 62
The Series 62 offered the only 4-door convertible built by Cadillac in 1941 and it would be the last time this bodystyle was ever made by the marque.
