Chevrolet Delray: История и Эволюция Модели

The Chevrolet Delray, named after the Delray neighborhood of Detroit, Michigan, debuted in 1954 as an optional trim level on two door models of Chevrolet's mid range 210 series of cars. In 1958, it became a distinct series of its own at the bottom of Chevrolet's lineup (replacing the discontinued 150), and added a four door sedan, and sedan delivery, but it only remained in production for that model year.

The first year for Delray was the final year for the 1949 1954 style Chevrolets. For 1954 the 210 series was shortened considerably, losing its hardtop coupe and convertible but adding the Delray club coupe.

The 1955 model year marked the introduction of a new chassis and the debut of the Chevrolet's well received small block V8. The center door frame was strengthened for more safety. Brakes were drums. A 210 buyer was free to choose any Chevrolet powertrain option. The ammeter and oil pressure gauges were changed to warning lights.

Engine choices remained the same except for higher hp ratings. The 265³ V8 could now be had in three different configurations. The I6 had a new unified build no matter the transmission.

New for 1957 was the 283 in³ small block V8. Even the fuel injected version was available to 210 buyers. The 210, including the Delray, shared the wedge shaped side trim with the Bel Air, but unlike the Bel Air (which had the wedge filled with an aluminum trim panel) the 210's wedge was painted either body color, or top color with the optional two tone paint package. "Chevrolet" in script was mounted inside the wedge.

Like the rest of Chevrolet's 1958 full size car line up, the Yeoman featured Chevrolet's new "Safety Girder" cruciform frame. Similar in layout to the frame adopted for the 1957 Cadillac, it featured box section side rails and a boxed front cross member that bowed under the engine, these "x frames" were used on other 1958 to 1964 Chevys, as well as Cadillac. The rear was tied together by a channel section cross member. This design was later criticized as providing less protection in the event of a side impact collision, but would persevere through the end of the 1964 model year.