1931 Chevrolet 568 CABRIOLET Independence (Convertible Cabriolet W/Roll-Up Windows & Rumble Seat-109" W/Base)
In 1931, Chevrolet offered 12 different models of passenger cars. This model is a 1931 Convertible Cabriolet and it came with a rumble seat. Though it was a convertible, it had roll-up windows, unlike its cousin the Roadster, which had plastic curtains instead of windows. The 1931 Chevrolet Cabriolet Convertible had a body built by Fisher Body.
All cars & trucks in 1931 were part of the Independence series. Passenger cars & 1/2 ton models had a two-letter designation of AE. These letters can be found on the data (identification) plate that was nailed to the passenger side floor or seat frame. Overall production for 1931 Chevrolet models was 623,901, while the Cabriolet had a production run of 23,077 cars. During the 1931 production year, the 8 millionth Chevrolet was manufactured.
The Fisher Body aluminum tag on the firewall will show the Job Number for this car as 31-568. The Convertible Cabriolet sold new for $615.00. Though bumpers were still considered an extra cost accessory, early models of this car came with chrome double bar bumpers, but a customer could order the new single bar bumpers in mid-year. Other standard features in 1931 were: chrome plated radiator shell, headlights, headlight bar, exterior door handles, hubcaps and tail light. Interior handles were nickel plated.
All cars came with a three-speed standard transmission, which had to be double clutched when shifted. Syncromesh transmissions would not be available until 1932. The wheelbase of 1931 Chevrolet cars was extended two more inches to 109 inches. The overhead valve six-cylinder engine is 194 cubic inches (cu. in.) displacement with 50 horsepower. It came with an updraft Carter 150S carburetor.
Passenger cars & half ton trucks came with four-wheel mechanical brakes, 9 inch clutch disc, differential gear ratio of 1:4.10. 19 inch wire wheels became standard on all 1931 Chevy passenger cars.
Accessories were available like a passenger side tail light, spot light, hot water heater, cowl lights, windshield defroster, fender mounted spare tires, spare tire lock, spare tire cover, cigar lighter, Viking or Eagle radiator cap, trunk rack and trunk, thermostat, seat covers, and more. The Chevrolet advertising theme for 1931 was "The Great American Value".