Frame Off Restored Bel Air Convertible 265 V8 Powerglide Wire Wheels

1956 Chevrolet Bel Air/150/210 Description

SUMMARY

If you subscribe to our email blast you know all about the incredible pro-touring Impala we recently featured for $239,900. Sure, that's a REALLY nice car. But what about folks who enjoy their drop-tops steeped in a little more tradition? Fear not, RK Motors Charlotte has a car for them too! The beneficiary of a professional, frame-off restoration, this seriously cool cruiser is a high quality tri-five that you can invest in, drive around and enjoy for years to come. Featuring an equal emphasis on show and go, it combines an era-correct, 265 cubic inch small block with a smooth Powerglide transmission and correct, 2-tone appearance. If you've been searching for a striking '50s showpiece, but want something that's a heck of a lot more usable than some high dollar hot rod, this Chevy's excellent combination of vintage style and timeless class simply can't be beat!

BODYWORK/TRIM

This well-traveled convertible is a fully sorted road warrior that combines everything great about '50s Americana with a correct drivetrain and retro-cool aesthetics. The car's detailed, ground-up restoration veils a rock-solid profile in correct Nassau and Harbor Blue 2-stage. That pigment rides under factory-spec trim, which reflects like-new glass and a tight white top. And presently, the car rolls as a subdued combination of classic lines, good times and old school swagger.

ENGINE

Since this Bel Air is more parade queen than stoplight warrior, it should come as no surprise that the car's 265 cubic inch Super Turbo Fire V8 is essentially a gimmick-free exercise in factory accuracy and antique showmanship. Look to the top of the mill and you'll find a reliable Rochester carburetor that mixes oxygen from an oil bath air cleaner with fuel that's supplied by stainless fluid lines and a traditional mechanical pump. At the sides of that carburetor, stamped and silver-detailed valve covers cap restored exhaust manifolds that are piped in to free-breathing tubes. Behind that carburetor, a traditional points distributor shoots fire through loomed Mileage Plus plug wires. And in front of that carburetor, a tagged radiator circulates coolant through GM-branded hoses and authentic squeeze clamps. In addition to its smooth powerplant, the fully detailed engine bay features dual horns, a Delco-Remy generator and a tagged Delco yellow cap battery. And aesthetically, Satin Black fenders bridge the gap between the mill's deep red block and the car's Harbor Blue exterior.

DRIVETRAIN/SUSPENSION

As is the case with most '50s-era GM cruisers, that engine is backed by a familiar Powerglide 2-speed, which sends torque to a highway-friendly rear end. That rebuilt drivetrain rides a completely restored suspension, which, along with the car's tight manual steering and firm drum brakes, provides a great combination of old school ride and handling characteristics. That clean suspension rolls traditional wire wheels, which twist 205/75R15 Coker Classic whitewalls. An authentic 'snap, crackle, pop' engine note is provided by throaty turbo mufflers. Out back, an aftermarket sway bar frames a fresh stainless fuel tank. And in a break with tradition, this Bel Air's solid floors have been sealed in a thick layer of Harbor Blue pigment.

INTERIOR

Featuring a pleasant array of accents, this tri-five's correct, 2-tone interior is one of its most impressive traits. At the center of the car, firm bench seats wear taut vinyl skin that's highlighted by bright chrome hardware. In front of those seats, a classy dash hangs clean, bowtie-branded gauges next to a simple, pushbutton radio. On the doors, textured panels found traditional chrome handles around stainless trim and sculpted armrests. At the floor, clean California Carpet rides under rugged, Bel Air-branded mats. The driver stays connected to the road through a large-diameter steering wheel, which spins a full chrome horn ring around a gold Chevrolet centerpiece. And the passengers stow their essentials in a fully restored trunk that anchors a full-size spare tire between a correct jack, fresh decals and a new mat.

OUR SALE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTATION

Impressive and ready to roll, this Chevy is poised to turn heads. It's a highly desirable tri-five that's been carefully restored with all of the right stuff to be a clean, traditional cruiser. If you're shopping for the perfect blend of old school design and vintage style, it's time to claim your next classic!