The 1948 CHEVROLET CABRIOLET FLEETMASTER (LHD) is one of GENERAL MOTORS greatest achievements, offering the finest in styling and handling of its day. With smooth bodylines and graceful curves in unison, the CABRIOLET FLEETMASTER was unrivalled by any other vehicle of its time. All components highly engineered using the finest materials available. For the ultimate driving experience accessories were available - designed in such a way to enhance the overall comfort and appearance. Only those who demand the utmost use original genuine Chevrolet parts and accessories on their vehicle, anything else would not be acceptable. Today the CABRIOLET FLEETMASTER still surpasses all makes and models of its decade. It has become the most desired of all vehicles to restore. (Courtesy of 1948CHEVY.COM) THE HISTORY: Directly after WW2, saw the 1946 introduction of the DK-Series CHEVROLET CABRIOLET FLEETMASTER. Its production ran for 3-years until the end of 1948 (January 1949). The 1946 DK-Series FLEETMASTER was the top trim level model in the entire range. The 1947 EK-Series FLEETMASTER was little changed from its predecessor, the most notable visual difference being a new radiator grille with a more horizontal theme. The 1948 FK-Series FLEETMASTER was again little changed from the previous year. There were no significant body alterations, however the radiator grille featured a vertical centre bar. This range offered a variety of designs consisting of the car offered here a 2-DR CABRIOLET, and the additional 2-DR Sport Coupe, and a 2-DR Town Sedan - whereas, the 4-DR Line offered the alternatives of 4-DR Sport Sedan, and the 4-DR (8-Seater) “Woodie” Station Wagon models. Also introduced in this period was the Fleetmaster “Sub Series” FLEETLINE range available as the 2-DR AERO SEDAN (Coupe) and 4-DR SPORT MASTER (Sedan). Both cars featured "FASTBACK" styling and additional triple mouldings on all fenders, however the 4-DR version roof-line to rear boot-line was not a continuous flowing line - like the 2-DR model. These two designs where unique to the “FLEETLINE” two model range. Please see the beautiful fully restored FLEETLINE “AERO SEDAN” that is also advertised on this website. And finally, the CHEVROLET range for the period was completed with the lower-level DJ-Series STYLEMASTER range. THE RARITY: During the combined period the GM CHEVROLET DIVISION built a total of 1,696,563 FLEETMASTER and FLEETLINE models in their car ranges. Of which in total only 53,422 of the virtually unchanged CABRIOLETs were built, representing a mere 3.15% of overall production. The 1948 CABRIOLET model represented 20,471 (2.86%) of the total 713,881 FLEETMASTER cars produced that year. This in turn means now, some 75-years down-track, very few of these cars remain and seemingly no more than the original at percentage mentioned and highly likely far less in “restorable” or original condition. Of the remnants, unfortunately the vast majority were turned in to hot-rods, rat-rods, rust-rods, or any other descriptive means of destroying the originality of a classic car. THE VALUE: Furthermore, if it’s any indication of scarcity, a highly respected marketplace research and valuation .COM website has only managed to track the sale of six (6) CABRIOLETs in the past five years. That they are extremely rare in the “open market” is an understatement. Whilst mentioning reference points and guidelines, another highly respected marketplace research and valuation .COM website currently reflects a guideline price minimum value. 1948 Chevrolet FLEETMASTER 2-DR CABRIOLET – 6-cyl. 216.5 cid / 90hp 1bbl. #1 Concours condition $80,800 +4% #2 Excellent condition $63,900 +7.9% #3 Good condition $37,100 +18.2% #4 Fair condition $15,100 +18.9% The escalation of value represents the last 12-months ending July 2023. For this sale, I’m not quoting a fully imported and registered price, but rather FOB ex-Cape Town, South Africa – meaning inclusive of all Export Documentation required and delivered to the exporting Clearing Agent for Shipping. The rationale being she will probably go home to the USA – rather than the UK, Europe, or somewhere else globally – but then life is full of surprises. This car is priced to sell at GBP28,170 or US$35,865 or EUR32,750 – with option in 47 other currencies. The Shipping, Insurance, Import Duties, Arrival charges, and Forward with Clearing Agent charges will be stated in the BILL OF SALE Agreement. OVERVIEW: The Chevrolet “CABRIOLET” 2-DR with its 116-inch (almost 10-feet) wheelbase offers plenty of interior cabin space and the rear passenger seating ensured comfort for 4-plus adults - would seem to be at odds with itself. And yet putting the top down reflects the sunny optimism that Chevrolet strives to put forth as its image. A Chevrolet CABRIOLET just made sense to the American mindset then after WW2 - attainably-priced fun in the sun, with a dash of flair to boot. As the sales numbers attest, plenty of Americans believed that a Chevrolet CABRIOLET of the late 1940s era was the consummate blend of economic thrift, performance, sunshine, and good times. As the images reflect, any classic USA-built CABRIOLET of the era holds true that they knew how to make them bigger and bolder than anyone else in the business. They also appreciated the “Blue Flame” 216 ci (3.5L) straight-six engine that gave more than sufficient performance through the 3-speed “on-the-tree” manual (vacuum assisted) transmission, and simplicity of rear wheel drive - without resorting to a petrol guzzling V8 – relaxed cruising is part of its charm. This Chevrolet CABRIOLET was their top-level trim in the model range with no compromise on chrome. Somewhat reminiscent of being centre stage on the set of a Havana ‘50s style movie. Yet nowadays this lady would still have few equals when boulevard cruising just about anywhere. THE SUMMARY: Even though this isn’t a Concours de Elegance car, but rather a very good example that is in the condition to be driven and enjoyed with family and friends - without being precious about the expenditure involved in a ground-up restoration, that is then kept in a dehumidified cocoon. This example is complete, has all but a very small piece of missing chrome fender embellishment – which I will find a replacement for - has a great patina leather upholstery, the paint is well above average, and she runs and drives beautifully. I have over 30 years of experience in sales and project managing the restoration of Classic Cars on behalf of my clients. Your offshore buy of this or any other car that I offer is backed by seamless and fast shipping coordination to any global port of arrival you required – I have successfully shipped “sight unseen” cars to eighteen (18) countries to date. I would appreciate your initial enquiry by email with your name and best contact number. However, should you wish to not disclose such detail initially, and want to discuss the car directly with me, then please give me a call.