Vehicle Description
1953 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible
1 Family Owned- 2 Titled Owners
Factory 2 Speed Powerglide Automatic Transmission
VIN: C53B006727
1067 DTX- Bel Air Convertible
L - 730 Los Angeles Assembly Plant
235 CID Inline 6 Cylinder
6 Volt System
Engine Code: LAQ 7382 Believed Original To Car
Engine Decode:
L-1953 Model Year
A- Vehicle Designation
Q- Tonowanda Plant
Nearly $3,000 in service receipts over the last 10 years!
Contact Us By Call or Text Anytime!! Chicago Car Club -
312-420-3696
PLEASE BE SURE TO WATCH OUR DETAILED YOUTUBE VIDEO!
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1953 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible - Long-Term Family Ownership -
Beautifully Restored in Matador Red This stunning 1953 Chevrolet
Bel Air Convertible has spent nearly its entire life in the care of
one dedicated Missouri family. Originally purchased new by Don
Lunz, the car remained with him for decades until he passed it down
to his nephew, who continued to maintain and enjoy it with great
pride while residing in Illinois. We acquired the car from the
family this spring following the unfortunate passing of its second
long-term owner. The care and attention given to this car over the
years is clearly evident in both its presentation and
performance.
The vehicle is titled to its engine number, which supports our
belief that the current engine is original to the car. Originally
finished in Campus Cream over a dark green and light green
imitation leather interior, the car has since been tastefully
restored in eye-catching Matador Red with a matching red and white
interior. The restoration was clearly carried out with pride, and
the overall fit and finish reflect that. It even retains its
original green convertible top boot as a nod to its
factory-delivered color scheme.
EXTERIOR
The exterior of the car is in excellent condition with no visible
rust or signs of previous filler work. The body panels are straight
and line up well, and the paintwork shows a deep, glossy shine
throughout. The chrome bumpers and emblems, while showing some
pitting consistent with their age, are original to the car and
remain structurally excellent. All of the trim is present and
complete. The lights, glass, and exterior hardware are clean and
functional. The convertible top is in beautiful condition and
operates perfectly thanks to a newly installed hydraulic pump.
While the lights are working, we do note that the turn signals are
currently inoperative. Overall, the car is a real head-turner and
gets compliments everywhere it goes.
INTERIOR
Inside, the red and white interior is in excellent condition and
the color change from the factory green was clearly done to a
professional standard. The upholstery, carpeting, and interior trim
all present well. The dash is clean and well preserved, and the
gauges show just the right amount of patina. The speedometer is
currently not functioning, but all other gauges appear to be
working as they should. The factory clock isn't ticking but is
humorously frozen at exactly 5 o'clock, adding a bit of charm to
the cabin. All in all, the interior is both attractive and
inviting-perfect for top-down cruising.
UNDERHOOD
Under the hood sits what we believe to be the original 235 cubic
inch inline-six. The engine bay is tidy and well sorted, stretching
from the firewall to the core support. The engine starts easily,
idles smoothly, and runs beautifully without any smoke or odd
noises. The carburetor and fuel system appear clean and well
maintained. It's clear that this car has been lovingly cared for
both inside and out, and mechanically it's in impressive shape.
UNDERBODY
The underbody is equally impressive. It's clean, dry, and solid
throughout. We note many newer suspension components and bushings,
and everything underneath looks well-preserved. The body mounts are
solid, and the frame is straight and structurally sound with no
issues to report. There are no signs of major fluid leaks, and the
overall condition of the underside reflects the car's careful use
and storage.
ON THE ROAD
Out on the road, this Bel Air performs as well as it looks. It
starts up easily, drives straight, and stops confidently. The
suspension feels tight with no rattles or unwanted noises. While
the speedometer is not currently functional, the car pulls smoothly
to speed and feels balanced and responsive at all times. It's a joy
to drive and brings back the feel of true 1950s American open-air
motoring.
CONCLUSION
This 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible is the kind of car you
rarely come across-a well-kept, family-owned classic that has
received the care and attention it deserves for decades.
Beautifully restored, mechanically strong, and visually striking,
this Bel Air is ready for its next chapter. Whether you're looking
for a show-worthy cruiser or a turn-key classic to enjoy on sunny
weekends, this one checks all the boxes. Clean title in hand and
ready to be enjoyed.
Contact Us By Call or Text Anytime!! Chicago Car Club -
312-420-3696
PLEASE BE SURE TO WATCH OUR DETAILED YOUTUBE VIDEO!