Chevrolet Pickup 1st Gen
Representing Chevrolet's formative years in the truck market, these pre-war pickups are valued for their simple mechanics and classic styling. They remain an accessible entry point into vintage truck collecting, with a wide range of conditions available.
Find one with Spotter →Chevrolet Pickup 1st Gen sold for a median of $16,775 over the last 12 months, based on 8 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $11,575 and $31,500. 25 currently for sale.
Chevrolet's first factory-built pickups emerged in 1918, but the trucks from the mid-1920s to late-1930s defined the brand's early commercial efforts. These vehicles competed directly with Ford, offering buyers a durable and practical alternative. The introduction of the overhead-valve inline-6 engine, known as the "Stovebolt," in 1929 gave Chevrolet a significant performance advantage with more power and smoothness than Ford's 4-cylinder.
Collectors are drawn to these trucks for their historical importance and classic, upright styling. They represent a transition from simple utilitarian vehicles to more stylized designs that previewed the post-war boom. Their simple mechanicals make them approachable for enthusiasts to maintain and restore. They are also a very popular starting point for hot rod and street rod builds, which contributes to a diverse market.
Based on recent sales, the market for these early Chevy pickups is quite accessible. The average price sits around $21,000, but the range is broad. Project-quality trucks can be found for under $5,000, while expertly restored or high-quality custom builds can reach up to $45,000. Originality, condition, and the quality of any restoration work are the primary drivers of value.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the biggest enemy. Thoroughly inspect the cab corners, floors, running boards, and lower door sections.
- Check the wood structure within the cab. Many of these trucks used structural wood that is costly and difficult to replace correctly if it has rotted.
- Verify the engine's originality. The Stovebolt 6 is a desirable feature for post-1929 trucks, but many have been swapped for later engines. An original, numbers-matching powertrain increases value.
- Examine the frame for cracks, rust, or crude repairs, especially if you suspect it was used heavily as a farm truck.
- Brakes and steering are primitive by modern standards. A test drive is critical to understand the truck's capabilities and ensure it's safe to operate.
Recent sales show a wide range, with prices from around $4,600 for projects to $45,000 for excellent restored examples.
210 Chevrolet Pickup 1st Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 25 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Chevrolet Pickup 1st Gen cost?
Over the last 12 months, Chevrolet Pickup 1st Gen sold for a median of $16,775 across 8 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $11,575 and $31,500. There are 25 currently for sale.
How many Chevrolet Pickup 1st Gen listings are for sale right now?
There are 25 Chevrolet Pickup 1st Gen listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.