If you bought a Chevy 210 brand new in 1956, you could have ordered it with a 265 cubic inch V8. Introduced the year before, the 265 was the GM division’s first V8 since 1918. At first glance, the seller’s two-tone ’56 210 looks rather tame, so who would know there’s a big-block lurking there now. Located in Maryville, Tennessee, this nifty restomod is available here on craigslist for $28,000. This time, the tip comes from Jack M.
The 210 was the mid-range model in ’56, flanked by the 150 on one end and the snappy Bel Air on the other. More than 200,000 210 2-door sedans were built that year, which is why they’re not scarce commodities today. This edition has no doubt been restored and upgraded, perhaps at the same time. The 454 may have some performance upgrades, and it’s hooked up to a TH-350 automatic transmission (why not a TH-400?), a pairing that wouldn’t be on the Chevrolet payroll before 1970. We’re told it runs and drives as well as it looks.
Extras or newer parts include front disc brakes, master cylinder, and power booster. Vintage air conditioning was added, and the interior was done up to a custom “new age” look. The two-tone paint may be the original combination, and the only flaws might be in one door panel, where the material is a bit out of shape.
Considering the cool factor of this car, the seller provides no history, nor does he or she brag. It’s mostly a statement of features. The only thing I would change is the wheel covers. They’re not from 1956 and just make the car seem a bit cartoonish (to me).
Like the 56 Chevys more than the 55s or 57s!!
454 seems like overkill to me but try and replicate this build for the $$ ask. From the looks of the steering column the front suspension probably got upgraded too. Gotta agree with @Russ Dixon on the TH350 and the wheel covers. Nonetheless, fine cruiser.
I might have chosen another color combination, but this thing is awesome.
I would put a set of black rims, perhaps wider on rear, with a set of simple dog dishes with a Chevy emblem in the center. Keep them all 7” for the sleeper look but you could go wider on the rear so you have a chance to hookup with that BB…no whitewalls. I bet this thing is a blast to drive!
You probably don’t want to hook up too good with that Turbo 350.
TH 400 is heavier for One reason..
What a weird mix of parts used. Luckily it wouldn’t take much to correct it all.