Vehicle Description
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!