What is the wheelbase of a 1940 Chevy?
The wheelbase of most 1940 Chevrolet passenger cars was 112 inches (about 284 cm). This article explains the wheelbase across the 1940 lineup and notes where variations occurred.
Context: what wheelbase means for a vintage Chevy
Wheelbase is the distance between the centers of the front and rear axles. In 1940, Chevrolet used a fairly uniform chassis layout for its passenger cars, with the 112-inch wheelbase serving as the standard reference across the main body styles. This standard helped with ride characteristics, parts compatibility, and manufacturing efficiency for the era.
Standard wheelbase across the 1940 Chevrolet lineup
Before listing any specifics, it’s helpful to know that the 1940 Chevrolet passenger-car lineup was built around a shared platform. The typical wheelbase cited in historical catalogs and restoration references is 112 inches, with most common body styles reflecting that measurement.
- Common passenger-car wheelbase: 112 inches (284 cm)
- Notes on variations: a few specialty or coach-built variants could show minor deviations, but the baseline remained 112 inches for the vast majority of models.
In practice, the 112-inch wheelbase was the defining figure for 1940 Chevrolet passenger cars, providing a consistent foundation for the era’s sedans, coupes, and fastback designs.
Variations and caveats
While 112 inches was the standard, some specific body styles or regional market configurations occasionally reported slight differences due to manufacturing tolerances or bespoke bodywork. For restoration work or precise dating, check the chassis number and factory literature for the exact figure on a given vehicle.
Summary
The 1940 Chevrolet passenger car lineup predominantly used a 112-inch wheelbase, a standard shared across most body styles. For detailed accuracy on a particular model or body variant, consult period catalogs or the vehicle’s build sheet to confirm any minor deviations.
