Chevrolet redesigned its cars in 1955 and had an instant hit on its hands. Besides buyer-approved styling, Chevy brought back the V8 engine for the first time since 1918. Nearly five million units left the factory in three years, including this mid-range 1956 210 station wagon. This one has been upgraded mechanically, and you may have your choice of wheels. Located in Hollister, California, this driver-quality Bow-Tie is available here on craigslist for $18,000. Kudos to Tony Primo for bringing us another nifty tip!
The VIN on this 210 indicates that the wagon was built with the new 265 cubic-inch V8. And we assume it was paired with a 2-speed Powerglide automatic transmission. Both are gone now, replaced by a 350 motor and TH-350 tranny, vintage unknown. An alternator has replaced the generator, and an aluminum radiator and disc brakes are now on board, with no indication as to how recently all of this was done. All told, this old girl will do 70 mph easily on the highway.
We’re told this is a good-looking ride from 20 feet. Rust does not seem to be a big issue, perhaps due to its roots on the Left Coast. The interior seems to be workable, especially if you choose to haul the whole tribe around. The glass is okay except for one window. The photos show the car with a myriad of wheels, largely thanks to AI. It sits on 1970s Rally wheels, but the seller will arrange a swap if you don’t like those.
The seller would like to get $21,000 out of the car, but will settle for $18,000 so he/she can jump on something else. Trades are not out of the question and include 1966-67 Chevelles or 1964-65 LeMans (not GTO?), especially if a convertible is involved. Who’s ready for a cruise out to the beach?
Every once in a while there is a reprieve from the continual presentation of $30K and up cars. This is a great example. A nice driver quality car with the driveline upgraded for reliability and performance. The presentation is clean and the interior seems functional. I suspect it will need some suspension upgrades unless they have been done, but not mentioned. Same with door seals, but at least the electrical has been done, Other items that get kind of wonky on a 70 year old car can be worked on as they show up..
An $18k price tag give plenty of room for improvements and its basic solidness will allow fun while you work.
Cool car, interesting color and great price. I like it a lot.
The different wheel/tires are interesting. How do they do that?
If I had this, I would go for an SMS interior kit incl. door panels/arm rests and an original steering wheel. I like the look of the stock hubcaps/whitewalls that give it a sleeper look. Providing the 350 checks out, you get modern performance, a 3 speed automatic for dependability. I would also paint it in a stock 210 fashion. Being rust free helps; no patch panels/floors to worry about.
GLWTA!
The steering wheel ruins the look of this car. Really nice car with some great practical upgrades. Love it.
I wish someone could point out the “shortcomings” of the OEM V-8 and the Power-Slide. Reliable? Betch’er boots. Closer to bullet-proof.
Might just be that folks want to be capable of keeping up with the latest crop of innocuous but overpowered SUV lumps. Watch some of the vids available on the Web and you’ll see that MOST drivers should be limited to amusement park bumper cars as they don’t know squat about DRIVING. Guiding a two ton missle? Maybe…, but “driving?” No way, Ho-zay.
I love that color combination!
Love this car brought back to stock wheels and interior even better!