SUMMARY

The beneficiary of a concours-level rotisserie restoration that's logged only 696 miles
Correct 265 cubic inch Turbo-Fire V8
Correct Powerglide 2-speed automatic transmission
Correct India Ivory and Twilight Turquoise paint
Correct Turquoise vinyl and cloth interior
Factory power steering
Factory power drum brakes
Posi-traction differential / 3.55 gears
Sale includes restoration photos
15-inch wheels

Whether it's a rich color palette, or the perpetual sense of motion ingrained in Chevrolet's timeless Motoramic styling, there's just something about a 1956 Bel Air that demands attention. Arguably the most composed of its tri-five siblings, the car sold very well in its day and continues to be a staple of the collector market. The beneficiary of a concours-level restoration that's traveled a mere 696 miles since completion, this ornate Bel Air wraps a hot 265/2-speed drivetrain in correct turquoise and ivory aesthetics. Looking for a show stopping cruiser that's polished and ready to roll? Look no further!

BODYWORK/TRIM

Delightfully vintage and decidedly fresh, this slick sedan is proof that Chevrolet's decision to take a curvaceous fuselage, weld it to a sweeping roofline and decorate it with an ample amount of chrome was an excellent idea. Unlike the exaggerated designs of the late '50s and early '60s, the car's proportions are spot-on, there's appropriate use of trim, and the sharp rear fins that would eventually grow to controversial wings are fully integrated into attractive, planar surfaces. Judging by appearances, this hardtop was an extremely solid piece when its life as a collector car began. Nonetheless, it was subjected to a concours-level, rotisserie restoration that was completed by Redhorse Restoration of Braham, Minnesota. That freshening reflects correct India Ivory over Twilight Turquoise paint. And today, this Chevy rolls as one fantastic bowtie that has a habit of turning heads wherever it goes!

Naturally, this Bel Air's quality pigment reflects a roster of first rate detailing. At the front of the car, a guarded bumper founds a polished grille and clear parking lamps beneath a fresh Chevrolet crest and chrome-trimmed T3 headlights. At the sides of that crest, requisite 'speedline' spears float Bel Air-exclusive quarter scripts between small mirrors, guarded door handles and stylized fender skirts. Above those handles, a proud 'jetbird' hood ornament leads the eye to tinted glass, which reflects tight frames, polished wipers and a short antenna. And at the back of the car, a second guarded bumper splits the difference between factory taillights, trick exhaust tips and a second showroom-fresh Chevrolet crest.

ENGINE

In 1956, Chevrolet's 265 cubic inch Turbo Fire V8 was the most common choice for factory GM performance. It made solid power, created plenty of torque and provided excellent reliability for everyday errands. Follow this Bel Air's bright turquoise shine in to its muted engine bay and you'll find a correct small block that's been fully rebuilt and carefully detailed. At the top of that legendary mill, a correctly decaled, single-snorkel air cleaner feeds a big 4-barrel carburetor that's sequenced to a Carter bowl, stainless lines and an AC pump. At the base of that carb, a vintage intake feeds proven pyramid heads, which wear snazzy, silver-detailed valve covers. Factory internals spin a traditional points distributor, which shoots spark through pliable Radio GM plug wires. Once the fires have been lit, a tagged and stamped radiator circulates coolant through "GM" branded hoses and vintage squeeze clamps. Once combustion is created, a tough V-belt spins a rebuilt Delco-Remy generator. And once combustion is extinguished, stock exhaust manifolds whisk spent gases in to true-dual pipes.

DRIVETRAIN/SUSPENSION

Under this classy sedan, a straight and solid chassis is finished in subdued Satin Black paint, lending instant credibility to the quality of the car's detailed, body-off restoration. Above that skeleton, coated floors are spiced with a roster of stainless hardware. Behind the engine, a tough Powerglide 2-speed twists torque to a posi-traction axle that's equipped with beefy, 3.55 gears. Cushy turning characteristics are provided by factory power steering. Confident stops come courtesy of power-assisted drums. There's a 2.5-inch, true-dual exhaust system that pipes spent gases through baritone turbo mufflers. And power hits the pavement thanks to Twilight Turquoise steelies, which spin 6.70-15 BF Goodrich Silvertown whitewalls around full wheel covers.

INTERIOR

Featuring vivid Turquoise surfacing, this tri-five's correct interior is one of its most impressive traits. At the center of the car, firm bench seats wear a taut combination of cloth and vinyl, which is highlighted by polished hardware and neat chrome piping. On the doors, 2-tone panels, which almost look custom, hang chrome handles, stainless trim and sculpted armrests beneath body-matched toppers. At the floor, rugged Bel Air mats protect sleek Daytona carpet. At the front of that carpet, a painted dash centers ornate trim on fully rebuilt telemetry and an old school pushbutton radio. The driver carves curves through a polished and painted steering wheel. And the passengers stow essentials in a fully restored trunk that anchors a full-size spare tire beside a correct jack.

OUR SALE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTATION AND ACCESSORIES

A vintage Owner's Guide
Vintage factory accessory literature
Restoration photos
A few spare parts
Spare paint
Two Chevrolet tags complete with chrome frames
A custom car cover
Color-keyed, Chevrolet-branded towels
Color-keyed tools and gloves
Color-keyed carrying cases for many of the aforementioned accessories

If you're looking for a premium example of an infinitely collectible car, this sweet Bel Air is a great choice! Featuring correct power, correct colors and a fresh, concours-level restoration, it's the kind of classic that provides an excellent mix of equity and pleasure. Shopping for the perfect blend of vintage style and old school swagger? Call your friends at RK Motors Charlotte!