Vehicle Description
The 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air hardtop coupe is one of the most
sought-after Tri-Fives around, and this one maximizes all the
reasons why. The appeal here comes from an appreciation of classic
details, the right cruiser upgrades, the correct V8 power, and a
terrifically coordinated color combo inside and out.
The trim tag tells us this was born Sierra Gold and Adobe Beige. So
it's great to have its correct two-tone, but now it benefits from a
modern professional respray that gives it an added gloss and shine.
As you look over every inch, you'll notice the quality of the
fundamentals - crystal-clear glass, straight panels, and good panel
gaps. The iconic brightwork in places like the bumpers, trim,
bezels, and hood ornament all have plenty of shine, too. So it's an
excellent representation of a Tri-Five Chevy. But what makes the
'56 so desirable are the touches that are exclusive to this year.
The grille for these is a terrific touch that's wider than the
previous year, but in a cleaner style that many people prefer over
what showed up the next year. And the trim of the '56 Bel Air was
the only time the factory was ever daring enough to have the trim
run up the side like an arrow pointing the car forward. And the
pleasing contrast of the two-tone really knows how to show this
off.
The tan and copper color combo inside is factory-correct. It looks
so good coordinating with the exterior, that we know you'll love
leaving the windows down on this pillarless hardtop just so people
can see the full package. The restoration was all about getting the
vintage vibe right. You see it in places like the bench seats that
have the '50s-style look right down to the cloth inserts, silver
piping, and button-top presentation. A smooth dash, taut headliner,
nice door panels, and plush carpeting all make this very inviting.
You'll even appreciate the little details, like the clear gauges,
artful steering wheel, and working dome lights. But if you look
closely, you'll see the worthwhile integrated upgrades. There are
provisions for modern air conditioning, but the system will need
servicing to blow cold again. And while the AM radio is still there
for display, you actually have upgraded driving music from the
AM/FM/CD stereo w/iPod input hidden in the glovebox.
Under the hood is a vintage-style setup with the big air grabber
and Chevrolet script valve covers. In fact, this 265 cubic-inch V8
is the year-correct block, and it's believed to be original to the
car. Topped with a Rochester four-barrel carburetor, this motor
fires up and runs with the feeling of a well-maintained powerhouse.
This has the right kind of features you'd want on a classic
cruiser, like a Powerglide automatic transmission (also
year-correct), power steering, and power brakes. Plus, this now has
upgrades to be an even better cruiser, like front disc brakes, a
rear sway bar, and a modern tread on those classic-looking
whitewalls.
This is the iconic classic Bel Air that has been given the right
investments to be both a shining classic and a terrific cruiser.
That makes for an irresistible V8 hardtop. Call now!
