Model History
History of the 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad
A nicely restyled body made Chevy news in 1956, while all model series
nomenclature (150, 210, Bel Air) carried over unchanged from 1955. The Stovebolt six
remained standard engine, and the coveted 265 V-8 was again an option. But power hungry
buyers were treated to an even greater V-8, first in the form of the “Super Turbo-
Fire” 265, rated at a then-hefty 205 horses. This powerful small-block was followed in
January 1956 by a dual-carburetor option, a 225-horse screamer borrowed from the
Corvette. Getting to 60 mph from rest required a scant 8.9 seconds, a sensational
achievement for the day.
A stylish four-door hardtop model joined the Bel Air lineup in 1956, bringing the
body style count to seven. Along with the classic two-door Nomad wagon, repeat styles
included two- and four-door sedans, two-door hardtops and convertibles, and a four-door
station wagon.
Vehicle Specifications
Year: 1956
Make: Chevrolet
Model: Bel Air Nomad 2D Station Wagon
Engine: 350 cubic inch, circa 1971
Transmission: Automatic
Body Color(s): Black with flame graphics
Interior: Ivory
Vehicle Verification
License Plate No.___REAL MAD (CA)___Tag Expires on __11-2020_ ___
VIN No.____ VC56T-176279 _____ Correct for Type/Year? ____YES___
Does VIN Match Title? __NO__
Odometer ___47,618 ___ Actual Odometer ___AMU ___
Vehicle Equipment List
V8/350 cubic inch Chevrolet engine (circa 1971, source unknown, code “CGC”),
automatic transmission, drop front axles, tilt steering wheel, electric windows, power
steering, power brakes, viscous fan, chromed engine parts, custom air cleaner, American
Racing wheels, Big O tires, chromed heater box, Flow master exhaust, heavy duty front
sway bar, tow hitch, rear bumper guards, tinted windows.
Condition of Components
(P=Poor, F=Fair, G=Good, VG=Very Good, EXC=Excellent)
EXTERIOR
Body Topside: VG—no obvious dents or rust, but has a few dings in the tailgate area and
possibly elsewhere (hard to spot on black paint). Good panel fit, although tailgate is stiff
to open.
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Paint: Good—Looks to be an older repaint, still in good shape with no flaking or damage.
Paint is a bit gritty, some swirl marks, chips, a bit of orange peel.
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Soft Top/Hard Top: N/A
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Exterior Trim: Good – all intact (very important on a Nomad, since trim is unique), light
wear and tear.
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F. Bumper: Good – light wear and tear.
R. Bumper: Good – light wear and tear.
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Body Underside/Floors/Suspension/Frame: Good—no visible rust or damage, unrestored
frame. road dirt, and aside from front sway bar, most of the suspension bushings and
parts seem to have been installed some time ago.
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Tires, Front: Good --Big O SXP –P235/60/15 –10/32” tread depth Older tires..
Tires, Rear: Good --Big O SXP –P235/60/15 –10/32” tread depth Older tires..
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Wheels: Good – American Racing wheels, good condition, need polishing, a bit dull.
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Glass & Lenses: Good
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Weather stripping: Good --serviceable
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INTERIOR
Engine Compartment: Good—all functional, driver quality presentation.
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Trunk/Rear Cargo Area: Very Good
Inspection Checklist, Interior, continued
Dashboard (top and front fascia): Good
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Instrument Panel (gauges, displays): Fair/Good – transmission indicator seems to be
broken, some chipping.
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Steering Column & Steering Wheel: Very good—aftermarket tilt wheel, possibly Flaming
River or Ididit.
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Front Seats: Very Good
Rear Seats: Very Good
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Door Panels: Very Good
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Interior Metal Trim (door handles, knobs, seat frames): Good—light wear and tear
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Console (if equipped): None—column shift
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Headliner: Good –a few blemishes, right side
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Carpets/Kickpads: Very Good, minor soiling
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