In 1938 the automotive landscape reflected changing tastes across Britain, Europe and the United States, with compact economy cars sitting alongside larger family and luxury models. Looking at that year’s lineup helps show how manufacturers balanced price, production capacity and market demand on the eve of major global change.
There are 12 Popular Cars in 1938, ranging from Austin Ten to Plymouth Deluxe. For each entry the data is organized as Manufacturer,1938 production (units),Primary market/region so you can compare who built what and where, and you’ll find the full list and brief notes below.
Which regions did these cars mainly serve?
Many models were aimed at specific markets: British makes like the Austin Ten were primarily for the UK and Commonwealth, while American models such as the Plymouth Deluxe focused on North America; some European manufacturers listed wider export markets. The “Primary market/region” column gives a quick way to see each model’s intended audience.
How should I read the 1938 production numbers?
Production figures are annual totals reported by manufacturers or contemporary industry sources for 1938; they show relative scale and popularity but may exclude special orders or later revisions, so treat them as comparative indicators rather than exact sales counts.
Popular Cars in 1938
| Name | Manufacturer | 1938 production (units) | Primary market/region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet Master Deluxe | Chevrolet | 1,000,000 | US |
| Ford V8 | Ford Motor Company | 550,000 | US |
| Plymouth Deluxe | Plymouth | 220,000 | US |
| Dodge D8 | Dodge (Chrysler) | 130,000 | US |
| Citroën Traction Avant | Citroën | 45,000 | France/Continental Europe |
| Morris Eight | Morris | 80,000 | UK |
| Austin Ten | Austin | 50,000 | UK |
| Ford Model Y (Anglia) | Ford UK | 70,000 | UK/Europe |
| Fiat 500 “Topolino” | Fiat | 60,000 | Italy/Continental Europe |
| Opel Olympia | Opel (General Motors) | 40,000 | Germany/Continental Europe |
| Mercedes-Benz 170V | Mercedes-Benz | 30,000 | Germany/Continental Europe |
| Lancia Aprilia | Lancia | 12,000 | Italy/Continental Europe |
Images and Descriptions
Chevrolet Master Deluxe
The Chevrolet Master Deluxe was America’s best-selling full-size car in 1938, prized for its roomy coachwork, reliable Six engines, and value pricing; widespread dealer network and strong advertising made it a common family car across the United States.
Ford V8
Ford’s flathead V8 models remained hugely popular in 1938 for their affordable V8 power, simple mechanics, and broad model range; they appealed to buyers seeking performance and modern styling without luxury-car prices across the US market.
Plymouth Deluxe
The Plymouth Deluxe combined solid build, competitive pricing, and conservative styling that appealed to middle-class American buyers in 1938; Chrysler Corporation’s value positioning and dealer reach helped sustain strong sales nationwide.
Dodge D8
Dodge’s 1938 D8 series offered robust engineering and roomy bodies derived from Chrysler platforms; it was popular with buyers wanting durability and a step up from entry-level cars, especially in suburban and rural American markets.
Citroën Traction Avant
The Traction Avant’s front-wheel drive, low-slung unibody and advanced handling made it a headline grabber in 1938; admired by press and buyers for innovation, it sold well across France and parts of Continental Europe.
Morris Eight
The Morris Eight was Britain’s small family car staple in 1938, favored for its affordability, economical running costs, and practical bodywork; strong showroom presence and broad appeal made it one of the UK’s common cars that year.
Austin Ten
The Austin Ten remained a popular compact car in 1938 due to its efficient engine, comfortable ride for its class, and versatile body options; it was a favorite among British families and small-business owners.
Ford Model Y (Anglia)
The Ford Model Y (Anglia) was widely sold in Britain and parts of Europe in 1938 for its compact size, economical operation, and Ford’s extensive dealer network; it appealed to first-time buyers and city drivers.
Fiat 500 “Topolino”
The Fiat Topolino was Europe’s popular city car in 1938—small, inexpensive, and remarkably practical—winning buyers with low running costs and ease of parking; it broadened motor ownership across Italy and neighboring countries.
Opel Olympia
Opel’s Olympia combined streamlined styling, modern monocoque construction, and affordable pricing that made it attractive in 1938 Germany; GM backing ensured strong production and dealer support across Continental markets.
Mercedes-Benz 170V
The Mercedes 170V was a best-selling compact executive car in 1938, known for solid engineering, comfortable ride, and conservative prestige; its reputation made it popular with professionals and government buyers in Germany and nearby countries.
Lancia Aprilia
The Lancia Aprilia stood out in 1938 for advanced engineering, independent suspension, and aerodynamic styling; though pricier than small cars, it attracted buyers valuing innovation and refinement across Italy and select European markets.
