Vehicle Description
Incredible frame-off restoration by and for Rick Hendrick of Hendrick Racing. Show-quality finish, original colors, runs and drives like new. The best 1955 Chevy available anywhere!
We don't have any illusions that the estimable Mr. Hendrick's ownership adds value to this lovely Bel Air 2-door, but his reputation for quality is visible everywhere you look, and that's what matters here. It's simply gorgeous in every way that matters. Finished in its original code 612 India Ivory over Regal Turquoise color combination it is pure 1950s magic. Finish quality is off-the-charts nice, with spectacular bodywork that's probably better than new. The gaps are tight enough to pass the Lexus ball bearing test and there's not a wave or a ripple anywhere on the flat surfaces. The doors swing open effortlessly and close with the most heavy-duty sounding click we've ever heard on a vintage Chevy and you can see in the photos just how neatly the hood fits to the grille. Of course, all the trim was also restored to show condition and you can see how well it aligns on the bodywork. The bumpers shine up beautifully, the grille is ornate, and even the little emblems below the taillights show crisp details. None of that comes cheap.
It also carries a correct code 513 Turquoise and Ivory interior, with correct materials and patterns used throughout. There's almost zero wear on the seating surfaces, so it feels firm and comfortable when you climb inside. The wheel is fully restored, the dash has been painted to match, and the gauges are bright, crisp, and fully functional. There's also an auxiliary coolant temperature gauge under the dash although the engine doesn't get hot so it doesn't have much to do. You'll also note that the shifter quadrant now shows three forward gears instead of the original two, which is because Mr. Hendrick specified a TH350 3-speed automatic in his Shoebox. That's actually a really smart and nearly invisible upgrade, especially when the supporting hardware can be so neatly upgraded as to render itself invisible like this. The wiring is new, the heater and defroster work, the clock ticks away, and the only possible demerit is that the radio doesn't work, but we suspect something simple like a fuse and are investigating it now. The trunk is also finished to show standards with a reproduction rubber mat, full-sized spare tire, and a complete jack assembly.
This 1955 originally carried a 265 cubic incher, but the "D" suffix code on the stamping pad suggests that it's a later 283. Regardless, it's been rebuilt to stock specs and detailed for show and you won't believe how smoothly a Chevy V8 can run! Beautifully finished in Chevy Orange engine enamel with a correct 2-barrel carburetor and oil bath air cleaner, it has exactly zero of the usual hot rod parts that you always see. Reproduction hoses and clamps, a proper accessory oil filter, and a 12-volt generator all make it look highly authentic. They even added a reproduction Delco "tar top" battery! Turn the key and the smooth little V8 springs to life almost instantly and never needs any help with its idle, even when it's ice cold. There's plenty of power on tap, and thanks to the aforementioned 3-speed automatic transmission, it's always in the meaty part of its power curve, so the Bel Air feels lively and quick around town.
Underneath, everything has been rebuilt, including the front suspension, which tracks straight and rides smoothly thanks to new shocks. The drum brakes are plenty powerful for the car's modest curb weight and a single exhaust gives it a nice V8 burble that's so muted you almost can't hear it running. The original rear end was rebuilt, fitted with new bearings and seals, and carries what we believe to be 3.55 gears, so it feels punchy around town but cruises effortlessly at modern highway speeds. Original steel wheels were painted to match the body and fitted with original-style hubcaps and a set of 205/75/15 wide whitewall radials, which are the most visible change from stock, but you can't argue with how well they ride and handle.
Beautifully restored with no stories, this is the nicest 1955 Chevy you're ever going to see. There are cheaper ones, but paying for the best always gets you better results in the end. If you want to win awards, hit the cruise nights, or just relive a good memory, there are simply no better ways to do it than this lovely Bel Air. Call today!
For more details and photos, please visit www.HarwoodMotors.com
