1956 Chevrolet Bel Air

Description

Style never goes out of fashion, which might explain why the 1955-56-57 Chevrolets remain as popular today as they were when they were new-perhaps more so. Next to the convertibles, the car to own is the Bel Air hardtop, and this lovely 1956 Bel Air presents in its Onyx Black over Crocus Yellow color combination. Striking is one word for it, and it's a very refreshing change from the more familiar red, black, and turquoise Chevys you see at all the shows.

Starting with a car that was already painted code 695 Crocus Yellow made the transition to this two-tone stunner pretty easy. It's a combination offered by the factory and is one of the more dramatic choices available that year. The restoration is a few years old, so it's not a show car anymore, and there's evidence of both age and touch-ups, but none of that detracts from the eyeball-magnet styling. And thanks to the striking Bel Air trim which outlines the paint break, the black paint really pops against the Crocus Yellow. And if you're a fan of accessories, this car wears a set of fender skirts and a cool continental kit out back, making this Chevy look far more expensive than it is. The chrome and stainless are in good order, with bright bumpers and dazzling side trim, all of which make this car impossible to ignore.

The matching black and yellow cloth and vinyl interior is quite correct and there's really no other choice for a car in this color combination. It's possible that the interior is original, and aside from some very minor signs of use, it's in first-rate condition. Matching door panels echo the exterior trim and paint job, while the sleek dashboard has echoes of an early Corvette. The instrument panel is quite good, offering crisp gauges, clear lenses, and bright trim that seems to defy the years, along with the vents for the ultra-rare factory A/C system. The simple trunk features a rubber mat and plenty of space thanks to the spare being moved outside onto the rear bumper..

Under the hood you'll find a familiar 265 cubic inch V8. You'll also note that this Bel Air carries factory power steering (mounted to the back of the original generator!) and power brakes, as well as the massive compressor for the factory air-conditioning system. The engine wears bright Chevy Orange paint that stands out vividly in the satin black engine bay and details like the generator tags, hose clamps, and other small pieces add to its authenticity. The two-speed PowerGlide automatic transmission offers firm, positive shifts and is flanked by a dual exhaust system that offers a performance sound without being obnoxious. Body-colored floors highlight the clean chassis and it rolls on a set of 6.70-15 wide whitewall tires on the original wheels with full wheel covers.

With a very cool color combination, a ton of originality, and the burbling V8 under the hood, this Bel Air hardtop is a wonderful machine to show and drive. It's not a perfect car, but if you like to drive it's exactly right. Please come in and have a look at this one in person, because the photos just don't do it justice. Just be prepared: as soon as you see it, you'll fall in love. Call today!