The reason pro-built cars are expensive isn't because they pay more
for paint or know how to build faster engines. No, the pros know
that details matter, and this 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible is
an ideal example. Exceptionally well-built, it's amazing on first
glance, but you'll discover its true nature only after spending a
few hours looking at all the little stuff.
For you guys admiring the paint and wondering how you can get it on
your own ride, I'm sorry, but it's a proprietary mix that was
concocted just for this Bel Air. There's a little Lexus silver, a
little extra metallic, and a whole lot of time and effort, so you
can't really get the full effect from just these photos. But see it
in the sun and you'll understand why it cost what it did. Of
course, you can't just throw great paint on average bodywork, so
they worked overtime to get the panels straight, aligned everything
better than the guys at the factory, then buffed it out to a mirror
shine. A few trim pieces were shaved, including the hood ornament
and door handles, but the traditional Bel Air side pieces are still
in place and looking great. But that also means the trim had to be
up to the same standards, so a boatload of cash went into fresh
chrome on the bumpers, a new billet grille, fully polished
stainless body trim, and razor-sharp Bel Air script. And by the
way, yes, those are ultra-rare 1-piece California bumpers.
Completely color-matched with custom two-tone upholstery, the
interior a modern look and blends it seamlessly with the 1955
surroundings. The bucket seats are from a Lexus as well, and were
wrapped in gray leather and get this, real stingray skin to give it
an upscale look that's all-day comfortable and truly unique.
There's also a center console that integrates the touch-screen
navigation/entertainment system, A/C controls, ignition switch, and
a cup holder, and it's so neatly integrated that you'll wonder why
the GM engineers didn't think of that back in 1955. The original
dashboard has been restored using a billet insert that spans the
whole width of the dash, with custom housings underneath for the
A/C vents. In back, twin buckets straddle a custom console of their
own, which also includes another video screen for the entertainment
system. A tilt column with a leather-wrapped wheel, custom aluminum
pedals, power windows, locks, and seats are all part of the
package. The trunk is upholstered in the finest tradition and
includes its own video screen just for the wow factor. It has also
been fitted with a new black convertible top that fits flush under
a fitted gray boot.
The engine bay is like artwork, with a GM crate motor displacing
350 cubic inches and fitted with Ram Jet fuel injection. The
installation is ultra-sanitary, using a factory serpentine belt
drive system, hidden wiring, a nicely finished firewall, and plenty
of shiny aluminum and chrome pieces. It's backed by a 700R4 4-speed
automatic, and with 3.50 gears in the 9-inch Ford rear end, this
car runs as great as it looks. Stainless headers feed a custom
Flowmaster exahust system that sounds suitably aggressive it's got
power steering to make around-town handling that much easier.
Four-wheel Wilwood discs, fully finished floors, and a
color-matched frame mean that you'll have to invest in some extra
mirrors to show it off. 17-inch Torque Thrusts look great and wear
225/50/17 front and 275/50/17 rear Nitto radials that are exactly
the right size for this vintage iron.
This gorgeous Bel Air clearly demonstrates that beauty is truly in
the details. Call today!
Vehicle Details
1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
Listing ID:CC-776115
Price:$89,995
Location:Ft Worth, Texas
Year:1955
Make:Chevrolet
Model:Bel Air
Exterior Color:Silver
Interior Color:Gray
Transmission:Automatic
Odometer:5058
Stock Number:1503-DFW
VIN:VC55S008245
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