1956 Chevrolet Bel Air

Description

The absolutely iconic lines of this 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air have been given a performance makeover. But while you're going to love reading about the fresh and powerful big block under the hood, also take some time to see how nicely integrated everything is. Everywhere from the roll cage in the leather interior, to the color-matched undercarriage, shows that this was a performance build that also knows a Bel Air is a true classic that people gravitate towards.

This one instantly announces it's something special. Two-tones were terrific to have on a '56 Chevy, but the presentation is quite modern here. The blue looks so deep that it's almost appears black in the shade, but once the sunlight hits it, the metallic element pops with a deep luster from a quality application. And the red was the ideal other choice for this package, because the Bel Air had exclusive trim in '56 that gave it an aggressive streak running down the side - like an arrow pushing the car forward. This is a quality restoration, and so the brightwork was a big part of the investment. It includes the wraparound bumpers, wide grille, and all the trim that make these Tri-Five Chevys true American icons. And the upgrade to those polished racing wheels draw attention to the extra-meaty Mickey Thompson tires in the back.

Your first impression of the interior might just be a nice restoration that respects the car's history. After all, you get classic-style wide benches that have been recently finished in a supple tan leather. The clean dash takes advantage of the radio delete to give you uninterrupted brightwork that highlights the dual cowl design. Of course, it doesn't take long to also see there's much more going on here. Some touches are subtle, like the classic-style racing seatbelts and the factory steering wheel. Other upgrades are a bit more obvious, like the custom six-point cage for added strength and safety. Plus, the B&M ratchet shifter, complete AutoMeter readout panel, and dash-mounted AutoMeter Sport-Comp tach w/shift light are all there to give you the tingle of performance even before you twist the key.

Under the hood continues this car's theme of showmanship. The ultra-tidy engine bay finished in the exterior's bold red has the kind of thoughtful look that can win you awards all on its own. But you'll love this for more than just its appearance. You're looking at a fresh 540 cubic-inch V8 that was built in 2019. This is a hardy Dart block that was enhanced and fortified with Dart Pro 1 cylinder heads, a steel crank, steel rods, ARP pistons, hydraulic roller cam, Edelbrock intake, and topped with a Quick Fuel 850 double-pumper four-barrel carburetor. This also has terrific supporting components like the Griffin aluminum radiator w/electric fans, a serpentine belt system, Mallory ignition, and both the fuel cell and dual Optima red top batteries are in the trunk for ideal weight distribution. Custom ceramic-coated headers add even more power while feeding the 2.5-inch dual exhaust. And any time you want to really bring the thunder, the electric cutouts open this one up ahead of the Turbo mufflers. The stout TH400 three-speed automatic transmission was rebuilt to include a 3500 stall and rollerized rear half to reduce friction. This feeds a Ford 9-inch rear with limited slip, 3.89 gears, and traction bars for powerful and confident takeoffs. You'll want to check this all out in the undercarriage photos, because even the frame was done in a matching red on this thoughtful performance build. There are even nice everyday features like rack & pinion power steering and front disc brakes with drilled & slotted rotors.

This is the iconic Chevy that's built to own the streets and win awards. Don't let something this awesome slip away, call today!