Chevy introduced a whole new line of cars in 1955 that would go on to sell more than 4.5 million copies in three years. Later dubbed “Tri-Fives,” these cars have become some of the most collectible domestic automobiles of the past 65 years. The 265 cubic-inch Chevy eight-cylinder was also new in 1955 and the first small block V8 ever produced by GM. This ’55 Bel Air is a one-family-owned car that runs well and needs a cosmetic restoration. Located in Rogers, Arkansas, this Bow-Tie survivor is available here on craigslist for $28,500. Hats off to Gunter Kramer for this colorful tip.
The ’55 Bel Air here wears an interesting two-tone paint job, combo code 627 Shadow Gray/Coral, and we’re told the finish is the one the car left the factory with. This original one-family-owned Chevy has always been stored inside, which no doubt helped in its preservation. While the photos could be better, the body seems to be in decent shape, though we’re curious about the patch below the passenger side back window. We’re told the stainless is good although some of it appears to be in boxes in the trunk along with some other parts.
Under the hood resides the auto’s numbers-matching 265 V8 and 2-speed Powerglide automatic transmission. We’re told it runs and drives well after the installation of a period-correct rebuilt carburetor the seller bought. In terms of extras, this Chevy has posi-traction, power steering, and power brakes. To help sweeten the pot, a full set of Coker reproduction wide white-wall tires have been added for $1,200 while the original spare tire still resides in the trunk.
Given the interesting paint combination, this car should be striking in appearance when restored. But does the fact that it’s a pillared sedan rather than a Sport Coupe lessen its value? Like most Tri-Fives, plenty of these cars were built. As a Bel Air, more than 168,000 copies in this body style were assembled in 1955.
overpriced
Nice original car just way over priced
What up with pass side??!!**
Love the color combo. Ps/PB is great. Its pretty trashed for 63k miles though and with the rust and current shop prices this car is, sadly, overpriced.
One “family owned” makes absolutely no difference when the “family” has no clue how to care for a car.
That color combo was real popular during the Eisenhower administration for some reason, and not just for cars- when I remodeled the bathroom in my ’50s ranch house, I found it’d originally been tiled in pink & gray. I elected not to restore it to its original glory however ;)
My parents house was also painted pink until the mid 1960s , with grey window and door trim.
The colour combination, IMHO, comes from the popularity of pink shirts and charcoal grey draped pants of the fifties. A forty inch knee tapering to fourteen inch cuff, with tunnel loops and a skinny belt was just so cool. Add the pink shirt, ducktail haircut and this car and you would have been the coolest dude on the block.
yes on the popularity of the colors, my brother 1955 Desoto was the same color, then he bought a 56 in the same color, both were tri five Chrysler products.
With factory power steering & power brakes it looks like changing plugs on the left the bank could be tough!
Posi- traction on a ’55 ???
Just wondering.
Pipe dreams! 55 In rough shape with a high sticker price? Guess not.