Description
The Chevrolet Master Six was introduced in 1933 as a continuation of Chevrolet’s strategy to offer well-built, dependable vehicles at a reasonable price. Positioned above the Standard Six, the Master Six provided a more refined driving experience with larger dimensions, improved features, and more substantial styling.
Under the hood, the Master Six featured Chevrolet’s familiar 206.8 cubic inch inline-six engine, which delivered around 65 horsepower in its early years. Known as the Stovebolt Six, this engine had an overhead-valve design that gave it an edge in reliability and smooth operation compared to some of its flathead competitors. It was mated to a three-speed manual transmission, providing a straightforward and robust drivetrain for daily use.
The car rode on a longer wheelbase than the Standard model, offering more interior space and a smoother ride. Suspension consisted of semi-elliptic leaf springs front and rear, and mechanical brakes were fitted to all four wheels. While modest by modern standards, the Master Six’s engineering made it a capable and comfortable car for the time.
Stylistically, the Master Six reflected the changing trends of the early 1930s. The body design was more streamlined than earlier Chevrolet models, with a more sloped grille, rounded fenders, and a lower roofline. By 1935, with the introduction of the all-steel “Turret Top” body construction, the Master Six adopted a more integrated and durable body structure that also improved occupant safety and comfort.
Available in several body styles—including two- and four-door sedans, coupés, and convertibles—the Master Six catered to a wide range of buyers. Interiors featured cloth upholstery, simple but functional dashboards, and amenities such as sun visors, dome lights, and optional radios in higher trims.
The Master Six served as the foundation for Chevrolet’s full-size lineup during the early to mid-1930s, eventually giving way to the Master DeLuxe and other more specialized variants. It played a key role in maintaining Chevrolet’s strong market position during the Great Depression by offering solid value and dependable performance.
Today, the Chevrolet Master Six is appreciated by classic car enthusiasts for its honest engineering, early Art Deco styling cues, and significance in Chevrolet’s history as a builder of reliable, middle-class automobiles.