1950 Chevrolet Bel Air

Description

If you like the simple, clean look of the pre-V8 Chevrolets but need a little more go power than the old Stovebolt six could provide, well, perhaps this 1950 Chevrolet Bel Air hardtop is the solution. An older build that combines the smooth curves of the early '50s with later V8 power that makes a big difference in how the car drives, this Bel Air is a lot of inexpensive fun.

The '50s were a time of pretty radical changes at GM, but if you're a traditionalist who likes an old car that looks old, the early cars definitely hold some appeal. Bright white wasn't on the original color palette, but it works rather well in this car's case. The build was done some years ago, so there's evidence of age in the finish, but from a few feet away it looks good and for a car that runs this well, it's easy to overlook some defects in the paint. When it was built, fit and finish were quite good, with doors that align right and a hood that sits flush, and the bodywork underneath is in good condition. Best of all, they left most of the original trim intact, shaving only the hood ornament and emblem and trunk handle to give it a clean look without erasing its identity. And few colors showcase chrome trim better than white, with very nice bumpers, great stainless, and cool taillights with blue dot lenses for a period look.

The interior has been reupholstered but it doesn't stray too far from the original look. The black cloth seating surfaces are a little more modern than the original materials, but they're also comfortable and durable, and that's precisely what you want in a car that's built to be driven. New black carpets, matching custom door panels, and a beautifully trimmed headliner make the interior a great place to spend your time. Simple original gauges cover the basics, but the steering column is from a late-model GM car and it's topped by a Chevy steering wheel that actually looks right in this '50. An under-dash A/C unit is a clever way to add comfort without hacking up the original dash, although they did add a pair of auxiliary gauges in the center stack, which is a neat touch. The back seat is comfortable for three passengers and the trunk is big enough for all their gear, even with a full-sized spare tire in the well.

The old six is gone, replaced by a reliable and powerful 350 cubic inch V8 that's a pretty easy fit in the 1950 engine bay. Looking reasonably fresh, the small block makes power using a 4-barrel intake and carburetor, long-tube headers, and a cam that makes good torque without making the engine cranky. Chrome dress up pieces shine when you open the hood and upgrades like the modern master cylinder for the 4-wheel disc brakes make it safe in today's traffic. The front suspension is a Mustang II setup with power rack-and-pinion steering, while a Camaro 10-bolt rear with 3.23 gears on a Posi hangs on leaf springs in the back. A TH350 3-speed automatic transmission supplies the power and with big sway bars at each end, it's actually a tidy handler. Chrome wheels with baby moon hubcaps and trim rings are the perfect '50s rolling stock and carry 205/70/15 blackwall tires for a low-key look.

This Chevy is a neat older rod that runs and drives superbly and could be enjoyed as-is or serve as the perfect foundation for the next round of upgrades. Call today!