What year did Chevy make the 5 window pickup?
The five-window pickup is generally linked to the 1936 and 1937 Chevrolet model years.
This designation refers to a distinctive prewar cab configuration that collectors prize for its styling and rarity. The following article outlines what defines the five-window Chevy pickup, which years most commonly carry the label, and how enthusiasts identify authentic examples.
Defining the five-window cab
In Chevrolet’s prewar light trucks, the term five-window pickup refers to a specific cab silhouette characterized by five window openings on the cab sides. This look set the trucks apart from later configurations and remains a point of distinction for restorers and collectors.
Below are the main years most commonly identified by collectors as five-window pickups, along with a brief note on each model.
- 1936 Chevrolet half-ton pickup — the first widely recognized five-window cab variant, establishing the look that would be associated with the designation.
- 1937 Chevrolet half-ton pickup — continued the same five-window silhouette with incremental styling updates.
Note that some sources reference nearby model years or mention variations in body style, so the five-window designation is not absolutely universal across all 1935–1939 Chevrolet pickups. Verify details with trusted catalogs or chassis/body numbers, especially for restoration projects.
Why the five-window design matters
The five-window cab stands out as a hallmark of Chevrolet’s prewar styling, a period when automakers experimented with cab geometry and window treatments. For collectors, the designation often signals a specific production window and a distinct era of GM design—before the postwar shift to newer cab configurations.
Tips for identifying a genuine five-window pickup
To distinguish a true five-window Chevrolet pickup from other prewar or postwar variants, look for the cab’s five-window silhouette, authentic 1936–1937 styling cues, and period-correct badges and grille details. Cross-check the VIN or chassis numbers and consult period catalogs or reputable restoration guides to confirm the model year and body style.
Summary
