Image of 1928 Chevrolet National, sourced from www.classicautomall.com , Image Link.

1928 Chevrolet National: A Testament to Innovation and Endurance

As the roaring twenties reached their crescendo, the 1928 Chevrolet National emerged as a symbol of accessible elegance and mechanical fortitude. Born from the industrious assembly lines of General Motors, this vehicle not only represented the technological ambitions of its era but also became a cornerstone in the foundation of Chevrolet's reputation for reliability and value. With a unique fact to pique your interest, the National was part of Chevrolet's Series AB lineup, which was the first to feature four-wheel brakes—a significant safety innovation at the time.

Design and Innovation

The 1928 Chevrolet National boasted an exterior that exuded charm and confidence. Its tall, vertical radiator grille and classic 20s curves were complemented by sturdy wooden-spoke wheels, encapsulating the transition from vintage to modern automobile design. Inside, drivers were greeted with a no-frills cabin where functionality reigned supreme. The materials, while modest, were crafted with care—durable fabrics and solid metals designed to withstand the test of time. Technologically, it featured a 171-cubic inch (2.8-liter) overhead valve inline-four engine, which was quite advanced for its day.

Color options for the National ranged from conservative blacks to more adventurous two-tones, with deep blues and rich greens being popular choices among discerning buyers. Body styles varied widely, including sedans, coupes, roadsters, and even utility trucks. The two-door coach model emerged as an iconic favorite for its blend of practicality and style.

Historical Significance

The 1928 Chevrolet National served as a pivotal player in Chevrolet's battle against Ford's dominance. It showcased that affordability didn't have to sacrifice quality or safety. This car helped cement Chevrolet's reputation as a manufacturer that could deliver more than just bare-bones transportation; it offered features once reserved for more expensive vehicles, thus democratizing luxury for the American middle class.

Performance and Handling

Performance-wise, the National wasn't built for speed but for steady and reliable travel. With a top speed hovering around 50-55 mph and modest acceleration figures by today's standards, it was nonetheless competitive in its time. The ride was smooth for a vehicle of its era, absorbing bumps with a grace that spoke to its solid construction. Behind the wheel of a National, one would hear the distinctive hum of its four-cylinder powerplant—a sound that became synonymous with dependability.

Ownership Experience

The 1928 Chevrolet National found its place as a daily driver for many Americans but has since become a cherished show car and collector's item. Its maintenance is straightforward by modern standards; however, finding original parts can be challenging. The vehicle's simplicity means that many owners can undertake repairs themselves—a testament to its enduring design.

Fun Facts

The National had its share of limelight when it became one of the preferred vehicles for public servants in small-town America during its heyday. Despite common criticisms about its modest power output compared to some rivals, it stood out for its robustness and ease of use.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-preserved 1928 Chevrolet National can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on condition and originality—though these figures can fluctuate based on market interest. While production numbers were substantial for the time (over 1 million units across all Series AB models), surviving examples in pristine condition are relatively rare.

Conclusion

The 1928 Chevrolet National is more than just an antique; it's a living history lesson on wheels. It represents an era where innovation met the needs of everyday life—a true classic that continues to captivate enthusiasts nearly a century later.

1928 Chevrolet National Swing-Out Lower Windshield Seal. Sold by the foot-LP 108Swing-Out Lower Windshield Seal. Sold by the foot

1928 Chevrolet National Glass Setting "U" Channel-LP 108-AGlass Setting "U" Channel. 7/16" wide X 1/2" deep; 1/4" inside channel width. Sold by the foot

1928 Chevrolet National Headlight Bar Pads. 2-1/4" wide X 4-1/4" long. Pair-MP 485-DHeadlight Bar Pads. 2-1/4" wide X 4-1/4" long. Pair

1928 Chevrolet National Door Handle Ferrule Grommet. I.D. 11/16", O.D. 1-3/16"-MP 546-IDoor Handle Ferrule Grommet. I.D. 11/16", O.D. 1-3/16". Each

1928 Chevrolet National Hood latch bumper. 1 in. long x 3/4 in. wide at base 1/2 in-SB 12Hood latch bumper. 1 in. long x 3/4 in. wide at base 1/2 in. high. Each.

1928 Chevrolet National Hood Latch Bumpers. 1" X 3/4" X 7/16" high. 4-Piece Set-SB 12-SETHood Latch Bumpers. 1" X 3/4" X 7/16" high. 4-Piece Set

1928 Chevrolet National Pressure Ring Washer. 1-7/8" O.D., 3/4" I.D., 3/8" thick.-SM 69Pressure Ring Washer for Interior Door Handles & Window Regulators. Fits between escutcheon plates & door panel. Made of sponge rubber. 1-7/8" O.D., 3/4" I.D., 3/8" thick. Each (Corvette: Use for heater hose washer @ firewall)

1928 Chevrolet National Flexible Rubber Window Channel-WC 32-14Flexible Rubber Window Channel. For Fisher Closed Bodies, except those using a stainless bead type. Used on side windows. 13/16" outer width X 6/16" outer depth, with a 5/16" inner channel width X 14" long. Each

1928 Chevrolet National Rear Axle and Spring Bumpers. Pair-XB 26Rear Axle and Spring Bumpers. Pair