This 1955 Chevrolet 210 demonstrates why it's always good to have a plan. The cohesive build isn't flashy but shows a clarity of purpose that few resto-mods can claim. From the shiny copper-colored paint to the elegant interior, it has been beautifully updated without diluting the performance that lives underneath or robbing it of its cool '50s identity.
Starting with a 210 instead of a Bel Air (or not converting it to a Bel Air) gives this 2-door sedan a rather unique look. The clean lines of the original design are unaltered, but plenty of time went into getting the sheetmetal straight, smooth, and lined up just right. The bright copper paint gleams and is perhaps a few shades brighter than the 1955 version called Sierra Gold, but it has a clean, sleek look that both updates the look and keeps it traditional without flashy graphics and the silver roof adds a cool contrast that really works well. The door handles, hood trim, and a few other bright parts were shaved, so it looks clean and sleek but it's still instantly identifiable at a glance. As with any '50s car, there's still a lot of bright trim, all of which was restored with the rest of the bodywork, including the stainless quarter panel trim that identifies this as a 210. One-piece California bumpers help with the sleek look and have been refinished to show standards, and a custom stainless grille gives it a very smooth look.
The same subtle mind that put the exterior together clearly had a vision for the butterscotch-colored leather interior. Retaining the stock bench seats was fine, but they were covered in gorgeous upholstery that pays tribute to the original patterns while giving it a more relaxed, updated look. Sculpted door panels are trimmed with the original hardware and handles, and the garnish moldings were given a copper finish that matches the bodywork. Original gauges are joined by a column-mounted tach and auxiliary gauges under the center-mounted A/C unit, which looks period-correct. Other upgrades include the wood-rimmed wheel, a tilt steering column, and an AM/FM stereo head unit for entertainment. A Hurst shifter manages manual gearbox for a period performance look and even the trunk is neatly finished with a proper rubber mat and spare tire assembly. And yes, the color-matched fender skirts are included.
We don't know if it's the original engine, but it is indeed a correct 265 cubic inch V8 that's been dressed in period details like the Tri-Power carburetion and finned Corvette valve covers. Topped by an Offenhauser intake, it has the right look for a '50s mild custom and it's nicely finished with bright engine enamel that's pure Chevrolet. You'll also spot the modern A/C compressor (works but could use a shot of freon), plus a chrome alternator and power steering and brakes, so it's a pleasure to drive. A 4-speed manual transmission is part of that equation, and it spins the original rear end so it's still a decent highway cruiser. Headers feed a recent dual exhaust system, the rear suspension is augmented with air shocks, and it has been lowered two inches all around for that perfect old-school performance look. 17-inch Torque Thrust wheels look great on the vintage Chevy and carry 225/45/17 front and 245/45/17 rear performance radials.
Nicely finished with a great all-of-a-piece look, this '55 Chevy is the kind of hobby car that does everything well. Call today!