Description

The Chevrolet AC was introduced in 1929 and marked a significant evolution in Chevrolet’s lineup. Officially known as the Chevrolet AC International, this model was a successor to the 1928 AB National and came during a time of rapid automotive innovation and growing public interest in stylish, reliable vehicles.

One of the most important developments in the AC was the introduction of Chevrolet’s new six-cylinder engine, which became famously known as the “Stovebolt Six.” This 194 cubic inch (3.2-liter) overhead-valve inline-six engine produced about 46 horsepower, offering a substantial improvement in performance and smoothness over the previous four-cylinder engines. Chevrolet proudly marketed the AC with the slogan, “A Six for the Price of a Four,” emphasizing the value of this new powertrain.

The Chevrolet AC featured a more refined and modern design compared to earlier models. It had a longer wheelbase of 107 inches and came in a wide variety of body styles, including roadsters, coupés, sedans, and phaetons. These body styles were enhanced with improved bodywork from Fisher Body, offering better ergonomics, roomier interiors, and sleeker lines. Details like chrome-plated radiator shells and stylized bumpers contributed to its more upscale appearance.

Mechanically, the AC retained a three-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive layout. It used semi-elliptic leaf springs for suspension, and brakes were mechanical, operating on all four wheels—an improvement in safety over earlier two-wheel brake systems.

In terms of sales, the Chevrolet AC was a major success. More than 800,000 units were sold in 1929, helping Chevrolet maintain its position as the top-selling car brand in the United States at the time. This model played a key role in establishing Chevrolet’s reputation for delivering reliable, affordable, and well-equipped vehicles to a growing American middle class.

Today, the Chevrolet AC is remembered as a milestone in the brand’s history, particularly for its introduction of the six-cylinder engine that would influence Chevrolet’s engineering for decades to come. It remains a popular classic car among collectors for its blend of early automotive engineering and art-deco-inspired design elements.