BF Classified: 1955 Chevrolet 210 Restomod

• Seller: David B rill (Contact)
• Location: Colebrook, Connecticut
• Mileage: 11,500 Shown
• Chassis #: B55k014805
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: Chevrolet 454 V8 w/Aluminum Heads
• Transmission: Tremac 5-Speed Manual

Much has changed since the first owners walked into their dealership and ordered this 1955 Chevrolet 210. The original owner was recently reunited with this classic and said that, while they loved it, the changes made since it left their care meant it was more than they could cope with. That is understandable, because this Chevy possesses performance that would have seemed inconceivable when it left the lot. The current owner has been its custodian for twenty years, but is ready to send this beauty to a new home. Therefore, he has listed the car with us at Barn Finds with an asking price of $68,000. If you are irresistibly drawn, the seller is happy to provide additional images and videos and to negotiate in-person inspections.

The first owners ordered this 210 in a winning combination of Sea Mist Green and Neptune Green, giving the car a subtle, classy appearance. It has since undergone a dramatic transformation, with its panels resplendent in Red and Black. The paint possesses an impressive depth of color and shine, reflecting its surroundings like a mirror. Apart from a couple of small nicks, it is perfect. The panels are laser-straight, and the underside images confirm that, apart from a couple of minor spots of surface corrosion, this Chevy is rock-solid and rust-free. The sparkling California bumpers are new, as are most of the remaining stainless trim pieces. The glass is clear, and the billet aluminum Boyd Coddington 17″ and 18″ wheels give this classic a genuine sense of purpose. They are also the most visible sign that this Chevy might be more than an extremely pretty face.

Some classics are a triumph of style over substance, but no such criticisms could be leveled at this 210. The first owners teamed the iconic 235ci “Blue Flame” six with a three-speed manual transmission. The Blue Flame produced 123hp, providing very acceptable performance in 1955. However, this car features so many changes that nothing of its original mechanical DNA remains. Starting at the front, the engine bay houses a 454ci V8. The big-block features aluminum cylinder heads, an MSD ignition, an Edelbrock Performer aluminum intake, a Holley Brawler four-barrel carburetor with a fuel pressure regulator, Jet-coated headers, and a 3″ dual exhaust. An aluminum radiator keeps temperatures under control, ably assisted by twin electric Thermotion fans. Forget 123hp, because this motor churns out an estimated 500hp. There’s no point having mountains of power if it can’t find its way to Planet Earth. This Chevy sends its power to a 9″ Ford 3.40 limited-slip rear end via a five-speed Tremec manual transmission with a hydraulic clutch. Rounding out the package are a CCP Stage 4 suspension kit with rear traction bars, front and rear anti-sway bars, coil overs, and tubular upper and lower A-arms. The steering is power-assisted, as are the four-wheel drilled and slotted disc brakes. The back tires might be wide and sticky, but the seller confirms that lighting them up is pretty easy if the driver is heavy with their right foot. Cosmetically, there are plenty of highlights, including the chrome alternator, the Holley dual air-filter setup, and the wide selection of billet aluminum components. However, I rather like the color-matched valve covers, which seem to tie everything together effectively. The car runs and drives extremely well, with no mechanical issues. The big-block exhibits good oil pressure, and even on hot days, the temperature doesn’t rise above 180°. The effectiveness of the five-speed is demonstrated by the fact that even when cruising at 75mph on the open road, the big-block doesn’t venture above 2,000rpm. Potential buyers can consider this 210 a turnkey proposition.

Originally trimmed in Green cloth, this Chevy’s interior is another area that has undergone enormous changes. The vinyl trim perfectly matches the exterior paint combination, giving the inside of this classic a striking look. I classify the interior condition as consistent with a very high-end driver. There is no visible wear beyond a slight rub on the driver’s side seat piping, and none on the carpet beneath the driver’s feet. The painted surfaces are as impressive as the exterior, and the bright trim looks perfect. The air conditioning features Vintage Air and Old Air components and blows ice-cold. Other highlights include a layer of Dynomat beneath the carpet to reduce noise and heat, a Bluetooth stereo with a “stock” Chevrolet appearance, and a leather-wrapped sports tilt wheel.

Some classics blend into their surroundings, but this 1955 Chevrolet 210 Restomod is no such vehicle. Its exterior hints at something special, but only lifting the hood or flooring the gas pedal will reveal how potent it is. The owner has enjoyed this classic for two decades, clocking 10,000 miles of satisfying motoring. It is a Jekyll-and-Hyde proposition because the torque produced by the big-block will allow it to trickle along effortlessly and sedately if the driver barely tickles the throttle. However, poke it with a stick, and this old Chevy can easily transform tires into smoke. If that combination sounds like a winner to you, reaching out to the seller is the first step toward making that dream a reality.