1932 Chevrolet BA Confederate DeLuxe Sport Roadster

The Chevrolet Series BA Confederate was manufactured by Chevrolet in 1932 to replace the 1931 Series AE Independence. The BA carried over much from the Series AE and by model-year 1932, Chevrolet offered 14 different body style choices, which were all supplied by Fisher Body. The choices were now separated into ‘Standard’ and ‘DeLuxe’ with the distinguishing feature being that on either side of the bonnet the previous louvres were replaced by opening vents, finished in a distinctive chrome on DeLuxe models.

Touted by Chevrolet as ‘The Great American Value’, its 1932 passenger car line-up offered outstanding roadworthiness and durability, the two most important features to Americans looking to stretch scarce dollars in the midst of the Great Depression. Mechanically, the new Chevy was nothing if not robust; it used the high-torque 194 cu in (3,180cc) ‘Stovebolt’ inline six-cylinder engine (formerly the province of the company’s higher-priced 1920s models) but now upgraded with a downdraught carburettor (for improved throttle response) and a higher compression ratio to produce 60bhp, complementing that with a counterbalanced crank for smoother running. A 3-speed synchro-mesh transmission was fitted, and a free-wheeling mode called ‘Wizard Control’ was standard, which permitted the car to coast when the driver's foot was lifted from the accelerator. In addition, there were four-wheel brakes and five chassis crossmembers for increased rigidity and a more solid feel.

Chevrolet also benefited from the talents in its Art & Colour Department, whose designers from the coachbuilding industry added such stylish details as the bonnet vents and Cadillac-inspired front grille.

The car presented here is a fully-restored 1932 Chevrolet (Series BA) Confederate DeLuxe Sport Roadster coming from the small private collection of a Somerset enthusiast and gentleman, renowned for his passion, skill and eye-for-detail when it comes to older American cars. The car was sourced by him from the US and shipped back to his workshop, where a ground-up restoration commenced. No area was left untouched, with all processes carried out properly, methodically and to the highest standards. Specialisms such as painting and trimming were outsourced to trusted individuals, all combining to great effect. The car was a true labour-of-love and went on to win at numerous Concours events and shows, the quality of it evident to all. Sadly, the Collection was sold off to other enthusiasts before the gentleman passed away. This Sport Roadster was one of his favourites, but now it must be sold too, being diligently overseen by his widow and family friends.

This stylish Sport Roadster is a rare sight on UK-roads, but turns-heads like no other car, so be ready to chat about it! It's freshly serviced and absolutely ready for 1930s, US-style, top-down open-road motoring.