Vehicle Description
We sell a whole lot of Tri-Five Chevys like this pretty 1955
Chevrolet Bel Air hardtop. Why? Because their classic looks never
go out of style, they're easy to modify, and typically run and
drive like modern cars. Plus there's the fact that a lot of folks
grew up with fond memories of cars from the '50s. In fact, if I had
to name the perfect hobby car, it might be something just like this
bright red hardtop.
Chevy's familiar Torch Red never goes out of style, and even though
it's a bit more modern than this 1955, it looks right, which is a
tribute to the quality of the Chevy's design. This car was treated
to some high-quality work during its rejuvenation, but it respected
the original design, so nothing radical happened to it. That means
no chopping, no cutting, no shaving, but plenty of attention paid
to things like gaps and finish quality. The doors fit well, the
line around the trunk lid is even, and the brightly polished
stainless side trim between the doors and quarter panels fits so
exactly that it looks like one single piece. Getting a car to look
like this also requires a sizable commitment to the chrome shop,
and all the brightwork is in exceptionally good shape, particularly
the California 1-piece bumpers that are so highly sought by
builders today.
The interior was given a freshening at the same time, working hard
to look period-correct and is so much the better for it.
Comfortable red and tan upholstery looks like it came from a
high-end late model car, yet looks right at home in the totally
revamped '55 Bel Air interior. More custom handiwork shows in the
matching door panels, taut headliner, and neatly trimmed red
carpets. Original gauges are framed by a custom steering wheel on a
tilt steering column, and it respects the original look but adds a
smaller rim to make it easier to get comfortable. You'll also find
auxiliary gauges tucked under the dash and if you look at the
shifter detents, you'll see four forward gears, not two or three.
Vents for the A/C system were neatly installed out of sight and
there's an AM/FM stereo system in the center. The nicely finished
trunk offers a stock look, including a rubber mat and full-sized
spare with jack assembly.
The engine is a 350 cubic inch Chevy V8 with a Holley carb and
intake plus lots of chrome. Get your sunglasses, because this
engine bay sparkles! Chrome in the usual places, some custom
painted accessories, and an easy-access look make this a great
highway cruiser. The real story is a little deeper, because you
also get power steering, power front disc brakes, and a very
contemporary feeling driving experience. The 350 is backed by a
700R4 4-speed automatic transmission, so it cruises effortlessly
and the 10-bolt rear is rugged enough to eliminate breakage fears.
Built for the road, the chassis is mostly satin black paint for
easy maintenance and short-tube headers feed a custom Flowmaster
exhaust system with chrome tips just under the rear bumper. Chevy
Rally wheels look right wearing beefy redline radials all around,
which give the car a bit of a muscle car look.
Just like all the others, this Bel Air won't last long. Someone
will quickly realize that this is as good as motoring gets, a
no-compromises cruiser that does everything well. If that someone
is you, call today!