1956 Chevrolet 150

Description

Even though the tri-five Chevys are outrageously popular, we get fewer '56s than '55s and '57s, and that's a shame, because this 1956 Chevrolet 210 proves that they're great-looking cars. Simplicity always works best, so combining a great-running small block with a timeless look makes for a car that's easy to love.

That medium blue looks quite good on the clean 210 sheetmetal, and if there's one word to define this car that would be it: clean. Note that a few things have been shaved, including the hood ornament and emblem, some of the side trim, and the trunk emblem, all of which ensure that the car is still instantly recognizable but just a little different from all the others. The paint itself has a nice shine and while it does show signs of use and age, there's nothing to worry about when you roll into the cruise night behind the wheel. Gaps are good and the workmanship on the modifications was professionally done, so it's hard to say where the stock stuff ends and the custom parts begin. The brightwork that remains on the car is in good order, including the bumpers, grille, and simply straight piece of stainless running along the flanks. The louvered hood is a favorite customizer trick that's actually functional, removing heat from under the hood, and old-school guys will love the look.

The simple, understated interior puts a priority on function over flash, and that's perfectly OK with us. The original seat was covered in comfortable gray fabric, so it's a lot more comfortable on warm days than the original materials and will never look out of place. Original-style patterns help keep the '50s vibe inside and the nicely finished pleated door panels work even better in that regard. A wooden steering wheel offers some warmth and we love the look of the Hurst cue ball sticking out from the transmission tunnel. The original instrument panel still monitors speed and fuel level, assisted by a column-mounted tach and a trio of auxiliary gauges under the dash in the usual spot. An AM/FM radio fits neatly in the original radio's slot and powers a set of large 6x9 speakers on the rear package shelf. The spacious trunk is nicely upholstered in matching gray carpet and carries a full-sized spare, just in case.

For reliability and performance, the 350 cubic inch V8's combination is tough to beat. The power curve is bolstered by an Edelbrock intake and 4-barrel carburetor, Mallory distributor, and a set of long-tube headers that snake under the frame. Some chrome dress-up components brighten things up, but it's clear that this car was built for driving, so they focused primarily on making sure everything is up to the task. That includes a dual master cylinder for safety, a thick radiator, and lots of fresh wiring. The chassis isn't detailed for show, but with recent shocks and a newer dual exhaust system, it's an excellent cruiser that's comfortable and reasonably quick, so you won't get tired of driving it. The suspension sits just right on those Torque Thrust wheels and 215/75/15 blackwall radials so the wheel wells are filled to perfection.

Not a show car and unashamed, this is the '56 Chevy that's ready for road trips and casual shows. Fast, fun, and tasteful, we should all be so lucky as to own a rod like this at some point. Call today!