1955 Chevrolet Bel Air

KEY FACTS

• A charming and reportedly restored 1950s American icon, this Chevrolet Bel-Air presents in a striking two-tone colour scheme and benefits from uprated running gear and air-conditioning for a more usable classic experience.
• It is now powered by a 5.7-litre GM ‘crate’ V8, with performance enhancements including ‘Pro-heads’, a four-barrel Holley carburettor, a twin-exit exhaust, and uprated manifolds, driving the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission.
• The car is reported to have undergone a full ‘body-off nut-and-bolt’ restoration, with all inner and outer panels replaced, and a full repaint completed in 2016.
• Originally built in Oakland, California, it was imported into the UK in 2014, and has now been with the seller for three years.
• The odometer indicates 14,145 miles, though this is not warranted and is understood to reflect the distance covered since the engine replacement and restoration work.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• This Bel-Air is finished in the eye-catching two-tone Regal Turquoise and Indian Ivory colour scheme, over a turquoise and white vinyl-trimmed interior, punctuated by brushed metal and chrome trim.
• It rides on a set of 15-inch steel wheels finished in turquoise with chrome and white hubcaps, fitted with Vitour Galaxy R1 whitewall tyres.
• Equipment includes a top-tinted windscreen, a three-spoke steering wheel, bench seats, push-out front quarter light windows, an air conditioning system, an analogue clock, and a steering wheel assister knob.
• The modern crate V8 is ULEZ compliant and features enhancements to cooling, including an aluminium radiator, electric fans, and an electronic choke.
• The car also features upgraded front disc brakes for improved stopping performance, a set of Classic Instruments dials, a modern retro-style stereo, a Pro Comp intake manifold, braided oil lines, and a chrome engine bay dressup kit.
• It is accompanied by two full sets of keys, a spare wheel, the original handbooks, various US and UK invoices for restoration works, the import documentation, and a July 2020 feature in Classic American magazine.
• Multiple show trophies are included with the car, including a ‘Best Chevrolet’ award from the Rally of the Giants in 2023.

CONDITION

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition.
• Specific notes from the seller include: some blemishes to the boot area from luggage use.
• The most recent MOT test was on 4 August 2022 at an indicated 12,902 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass.

SERVICE HISTORY

• Five new tyres were fitted in June 2024.

SUMMARY

This Chevrolet Bel-Air is a reportedly restored example of the stylish mid-century American classic, enhanced with discreet upgrades to its engine, brakes, and cooling systems for better usability. Presented in a vibrant period-correct two-tone finish and retaining an authentic interior style, it has also been the recipient of several show accolades. A delightful showpiece that is equally at home on the open road, it offers a charismatic blend of 1950s flair and modern mechanical confidence.

Descriptions are provided by the seller and, to their knowledge, are accurate and not misleading. Buyers must satisfy themselves of the description’s accuracy, and independent research is strongly advised. Enquiries should be raised in the comments section and any inspections arranged before bidding.

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