Did You Know ?

August 21, 2001
Last week we received an inquiry from Bob of California:

Q. I've heard that Chevrolet was started in 1911, but I've never seen or heard about a 1911 model. Did they build one?

A. Thanks for the question Bob. You are correct - Chevrolet Motor Car - soon changed to Chevrolet Motor Company - was incorporated in 1911 by William C. Durant.

The first model - the 1912 Chevrolet Six Type C Classic arrived late in the year. The car offered an overheadvalve T-head of 299 cubic inches. This engine was the largest Chevrolet produced until the 348 cubic inch V-8 offered in 1958.

In the above photo (click to enlarge) you can see the first production Chevrolet, a six cylinder with folding top and adjustable windshield, one of 2,999 made for the year (including Littles). Check out this article for more history on the start of Chevrolet.

Other Chevrolet Questions Answered:

When has Chevrolet been the automotive sales leader?

Did Chevrolet make a Superior model in 1922?

Did Chevrolet ever build a 1911 model ?

Can you tell me about the first V-8 offered by Chevrolet ?

Can you tell me if 1958 was the first year for the Impala ?

Was John Delorean in some way related to Chevrolet ?

What did Chevrolet build for the WWII war effort ?

Did the louvers on the 1968 Corvette have a purpose ?

Did Chevrolet ever build a 1967 or 1968 Camaro with a 427 cubic inch engine?