1947 Chevy Fleetline Aerosedan: Reinvented as Modern Hot Rod

Classics
American
May 18, 2021
May 18, 2021
Back in 1947, the Chevrolet Fleetline Aerosedan was both a top of the line offering and a top-seller for the brand. Here was the winning strategy: a sporty fastback styling, reliable 90-horsepower engine, and affordable starting price of $1,313. More than 150,00 Aerosedans found new homes before the model year was out.
The fastback design and high production numbers also made the Fleetline Aerosedan a longtime favorite with hot rodders. The Aerosedan sold on eBay in 2021 is a perfect example.
Six-inch chopped top

Chopped Top Fleetline Aerosedan = Super Slick

Its distinct profile results from a 6-inch chop taken out of the pillars for an even sleeker look. Shaved door handles - opens in new window or tab. and other trim bits further smooth the styling. And underneath the distinctive pink paint, this Aerosedan has been thoroughly updated with a modern powertrain in place of the stalwart six-cylinder.
The ’47 Chevy now features a modern suspension, new brakes, and a completely redone interior with all the latest creature comforts. Did we mention that it’s very pink?
454 V8 Engine

A Big Block in a Fleetline Aerosedan? Yep.

Power comes from a 454-cubic inch V-8 engine matched with a General Motors 700R four-speed automatic transmission. So there's considerably more gusto than the original powertrain. A hot-rodder favorite Ford 9-inch rear end handles the increased horsepower. And the ride height was lowered with a front suspension from a 1970 Chevy Nova. Upgraded power brakes provide increased stopping power.
Even the dashboard is pink

Pink and More Pink

The pink theme continues under the hood, where the Fleetline Aerosedan's neatly detailed engine compartment contains a pink engine block, intake manifold, and valve covers. Even the air conditioning compressor, alternator, and brake master cylinder are pink. A contrasting silver panel on the firewall features pink filigree with the number “47” emblazoned in the center.
Inside, the original dash basks in the pink treatment, while chrome highlights remain. Modern instrumentation and a newer adjustable steering column add style and comfort. Other modern amenities include air conditioning, cruise control, power steering and windows, a power sunroof, and a trunk mounted CD player.

Gray and Dark Pink Accents

The Fleetline Aerosedan's reupholstered interior features a more subdued shade of gray cloth and contrasting piping. The seats have modern seatbelts front and rear. There’s also a matching gray headliner, door panels, carpeting and center console. The trunk was outfitted to match.
Other exterior modifications include “frenched” headlights and taillights for a modern, recessed look. There are teardrop outside mirrors, chrome wheels, and contrasting flames in a darker shade of pink.
Frenched tail light

Old School Cool and Modern Mechanicals

In conclusion, this Chevrolet Fleetline Aerosedan combines old-school hot rod style with modern mechanicals, amenities, and safety gear. It’s ready for summer family cruising or visits to local car shows. One thing’s for sure: This custom Fleetline is easy to spot in a crowd. And if pink's not your thing, there's plenty to keep you busy.
Hankering for a post-war Chevy woody sedan? OldCarsWeekly - opens in new window or tab.
has the deets on the Aerosedan's rare woodie option.

About the author

Jim Travers
Jim Travers is a lifelong gearhead. A classic car enthusiast and collector, Jim is a regular judge on the car show circuit and is author of the Smithsonian Institutions book, “Extreme Cars." His work has appeared in Automobile, Autoblog, BBC Autos, Car and Driver, Cars.com, Car Talk, Consumer Reports, and Hagerty. He lives in Duxbury, Mass., a town known for its beach and its dump. Jim can often be found at one or the other.

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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.