In 1936, Ford and Chevrolet battled to a virtual tie for the number one spot in the U.S. market. So let’s have fun and compare the two brands head to head.

All through the 1930s, Ford and Chevrolet dominated the U.S vehicle market as each battled for the number one spot. Combined, these two automakers claimed more than 50 percent of new car market in 1936. And when we include Plymouth, the somewhat distant third among the Low-Priced Three, they claimed nearly 65 percent of the Motor City’s total volume. From that angle, it appears that all the other auto brands across the industry were merely fighting over the scraps. Ford and Chevy were the titans of the market.

Chevrolet Master De Luxe Two-Door Town Sedan 

With an improving economy, by ’36 the battle of the giants had reached a fever pitch, and depending on which numbers you choose, either Ford or Chevrolet could claim a slight edge. But for most purposes, it was effectively a dead heat at just over 900,000 vehicles each for the calendar year. Both makes offered competitive pricing: $510 to $670 at Ford, $495 to $665 for Chevrolet. But in the products themselves, there were some interesting differences for car shoppers to to sort out. Which was better, Ford or Chevrolet? We’re certainly not going to settle that age-old question here, but it’s an interesting one to explore.

Ford Standard Coupe 

+   Engines: The sensational Ford flathead V8 enjoyed a reputation for superior smoothness and performance, but the Chevrolet inline six offered overhead valves, rock-solid reliability, and better fuel economy. Really, both delivered perfectly adequate acceleration and speed for their time, with comparable output ratings: Chevrolet with 79 hp, Ford with 85 hp. While the Ford V8 demonstrated greater performance potential with modifications, not an issue for most buyers, it was also known for its tendency to overheat. That problem was partially remedied when the cooling system was redesigned for 1937.

Chevrolet Master De Luxe Sport Sedan

+   Chassis: Here, more differences are evident. Ford continued to rely on its transverse buggy-spring suspension as pioneered in the Model T back in 1909, while Chevrolet was right up-to-date with independent front suspension, albeit with the sometimes troublesome Dubonnet Knee Action system. Ford also clung to its four-wheel mechanical brakes, while Chevrolet updated to the latest Huck hydraulic system that year. One could say Chevy claimed the edge in safety, ride, road comfort, while the  ruggedness and reliability of the simple Ford chassis were difficult to top.

Ford De Luxe Fordor Touring Sedan 

+   Engineering: Chevrolet boasted Fisher Body’s all-steel Turret top, while Ford carried on with a wood-and fabric top insert for one more year. However, Ford made greater use of steel in its internal body structure. Chevrolet also offered a quieter, more advanced hypoid rear axle. But with its smooth eight-cylinder engine, Ford could still stake a claim to engineering leadership. Ford advertised its V8 as “the mark of the modern motorcar.”

So who offered the better car in 1936? Ford or Chevrolet? Here at Mac’s Motor City Garage, that’s not our call. Both cars have their merits and shortcomings, and often the question comes down to personal to styling preferences and so on. If nearly two million American car buyers in 1936 were almost perfectly divided on the issue, it’s not for us to say. Let the arguments begin.

Ford De Luxe Convertible Sedan