Judging a book by its cover can be a major mistake, especially when it is a classic like this 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. Don’t let its tired and baked exterior fool you because this rock-solid desert find would make an excellent foundation for a project build. Its engine bay houses a running V8 that could see service again, although swapping it for something more potent might be viable. It is listed here on eBay in Apache Junction, Arizona. Bidding has raced beyond the reserve to $8,766.
It is unclear when the seller found this Bel Air or why its previous owner abandoned this beauty. The desert sun has taken its toll on the Skyline Blue paint, and a cosmetic refresh would seem the obvious path with this project build. However, the lack of significant rust could see the new owner opting for preservation as part of a ratrod build. The steel is remarkably solid, with only a couple of minor spots of penetrating rust in areas like the rear quarter panels. The floors and frame carry a layer of dry surface corrosion typical for cars from this area, but nothing requires cutting, welding, or replacement. The panels have bumps and bruises, but these are repairable. Most of the trim requires restoration or replacement, but I think the glass is okay.
There are no engine photos, but this Bel Air features a 283ci V8 and a two-speed Powerglide transmission. The engine is a later addition, with Chevrolet introducing it to the Bel Air range in 1957. Its specifications are unclear, but the seller says it kicks into life with a battery, an external fuel source, and a touch of hot wiring. They say the V8 sounds excellent, suggesting it could see active service with minimal effort. That would be the most cost-effective approach, but the availability of parts off the shelf means slotting something more potent under the hood would be straightforward. The decision will probably be driven by budget and the new owner’s preferences.
The blazing Arizona sun has exacted a heavy toll on this Bel Air’s interior, and a retrim will be on the agenda as an integral part of this build. It is missing a few vital components, meaning the buyer must source a new back seat, a few hard-trim items, and something suitable to fill the hole in the dash where the factory radio once was. Kits exist to perform a faithful restoration, and that approach would lighten the buyer’s wallet by around $2,000. A custom build could see them choose a different approach, employing other trim materials and seats. It is another aspect of this build where a creative owner could adopt a strategy to help this classic stand out.
Okay, it’s time to let your imagination off the leash. What would be your plans if you were the winning bidder? Would you pursue a custom build, adopt a strategy to reinstate the original paint and interior trim, or go for broke to create something totally radical? This Bel Air has attracted seventeen bids, and you might have serious competition. There’s nothing wrong with healthy competition, but will you rise to that challenge by making a play for this classic Chevy? I wish you luck if you do.
Sure looks like the yard where I picked up a couple Mopars for my son a couple years ago.
Bet this Chev gets a custom hot rod build, not a restoration.
Who cares as long as it gets a second chance.
I hope a restoration takes place. Would be nice to have the original car returned back to its natural state instead of chop and block the car…those are all over the place!
If you wanna see a restoration, go to a museum. I’D GIVE IT THE “Gasser” treatment!
I like to see it back on the road…maybe modern chain, as long as its a daily driver that would be great!
Be cautious visiting Apache Junction! The residents have more tattoos than teeth. A rough town.
Depends on how rough the body actually is, if it’s real rough and going to take a lot of work I say pro street it, what can I say, I’m stuck in the ’80s lol
I do understand that thought process…However, time to move on from the past of pro street, chop and block….but each to their own…you buy it you have the right to do whatever you choose. Only in America!
yep….I’m seeing some rough quarters and a pieced together front end…..past the 11grand mark….
This would be a fabulous resto-mod! Stock looking, lowered a bit, with air, power steering and brakes and perhaps suspension upgrade for handling and ride and with a new more efficient and powerful engine.
My thoughts exactly . Nice driver quality paint . Modern power train brakes and suspension . Recover original interior, new sound system . Wheels and tires and drive it . You’ll have a hundred people crowd around you at coffee and donuts .
This car is rock solid. I think I would set it up for some quick, economical fun. Seems to me a super cleaning, a good heavy coat of grey primer, properly sized Cragar SS wheels and all the missing trim reinstalled would take care of the exterior. As for mechanicals disc brakes on the front, a new fuel system, nicely built 331 and a M21 Muncie should do it. I would worry about the interior later.
Looks to be in good shape for the shape it’s in ?
This is in fantastic solid shape.
5.3 Vortec Gen III swap, 4L60e, Gm PCM, seat covers, brakes and cruise.
I love the RUST.
Two Lane Blacktop replica!!!!
I have a 63 425hp 409 that I’ve been wanting to plant into a 55. Grey primer, 4 spd, pie crusts, Americans, maybe a tube axle or maybe not.
Too many projects, so little time.
I have a 63 425hp 409 that I’ve been wanting to plant into a 55. Grey primer, 4 spd, pie crusts, Americans, maybe a tube axle or maybe not.
Too many projects, so little time.
’55 is best of the Tri-5s IMO. I’d clean it up some, address safety concerns, and drive it.
Of course, I’d most likely put a Ford motor/trans in it for spite, and park it next to a Chevy powered Ford at the cruise in lol.
Clean up the garage convince the wife and build the 55 you always wanted. Last chance to really have the car you enjoy
Any Tri-Five that runs and drives even with a milk crate as a seat is worth it. Bought mine in 2013 for 10k with mow engine or trans and missing some pieces. It would make someone a nice car with patina or polish!