If you’re a Bow-Tie enthusiast who believes in love at first sight, you might fall head over heels for this 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. I would understand if that’s the case, because this classic presents superbly. It retains its numbers-matching drivetrain and is a turnkey proposition that runs and drives beautifully. It appears that the only thing this beauty needs is a new home, with the seller listing the Bel Air here on eBay in Odessa, Florida. The current high bid of $31,300 is below the reserve with six days remaining for interested parties to stake their claim.
This Bel Air rolled off the line in the middle of the legendary Tri-Five production run. Although some people focus on the ’57 model, this 1956 example makes a stunning first impression. Finished in the Code 700 combination of Sierra Gold and Adobe Beige, it is impossible to ignore. The seller says the Bel Air retains some of its original paint, but doesn’t say which surfaces are involved. They also indicate that the car isn’t perfect, but there appears to be little to criticize about its exterior presentation. The paint has a mirror shine, the panels are straight, and I can’t spot any rust. Add crystal-clear glass and sparkling trim to the equation, and things look rosy. The original steel wheels, wheel covers, and wide whitewalls add the ideal finishing touch.
Chevrolet raised the bar in 1955 by introducing its new 265ci V8 to the Tri-Five range. It provided impressive power, torque, and smoothness, and proved an extremely popular option. The small-block retained the same capacity for 1956 and is the motor we find hiding under this Bel Air’s hood. It is unclear which version this is, but it would have delivered at least 170hp and 257 ft/lbs of torque when shiny and new. The first owner paired the V8 with a two-speed Powerglide transmission but resisted the urge to spend extra cash on power steering or power brakes. Purists will welcome the news that this classic is numbers-matching. The engine bay looks extremely tidy, and it doesn’t flatter to deceive. The seller recently fitted a new battery and rebuilt the original carburetor. They say that the car runs and drives beautifully, ready for action with the winning bidder behind the wheel.
The impression conveyed is that apart from the new Ciadella carpet set, this Bel Air’s interior is original. If that’s the case, the condition is noteworthy, because the seats show no genuine wear. The painted surfaces shine impressively, and the plated items are spotless. The interior images show the age-related deterioration the seller noted, with the armrests on both doors showing wear and aging. However, if potential buyers view this classic as a survivor, they don’t require immediate attention. There are no aftermarket additions, with the car retaining its factory clock and pushbutton radio.
I’ve talked in previous articles about cars having a “wow” factor. These are classics that make such a positive first impression that they are impossible to ignore. From its sparkling paint and chrome to the arrow-straight panels, this 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air possesses that quality in spades. The seller admits it isn’t perfect, but it certainly ticks the boxes for enthusiasts seeking a high-end driver. It has only received four bids, but the listing statistics suggest that figure will climb over the next six days. Are you tempted to join what could potentially become a bidding war?
Like the man said, Wow!
A really beautiful survivor. One much like it was my first car.
1956, the best of the trifives! I even had a ‘57 Nomad.
… and I’ll second that, Jack. Absolutely the classiest, most cohesive design ever from Chevrolet. A grade/high school chum of mine, five days my senior (“Respect your elders” was his favorite taunt) bought a brand new one like this only in white over what I seem to remember as “Dusk Plum.”
Actually, I’ll put this design up there with Albrecht von Goertz’ BMW 507 and that’s pretty rare company!
Jack, ur the man! 56 was the best.
that paint looks like it has clear on it. GM s magic mirror finishes never looked this good. sweet looking 56. these tri 5s will always be timeless.
A good hand-rubbed paste wax Simonize job, if not equal, comes darn close to that shine. Longevity, tho’, meh…
This is one for the record books!!! A 56 Chevy which has NOT been molested in any way… A definite collector car. It will not surprise me to see a BIG buck$$$ final figure.. Way bigger than my checkbook, but I would love to have it.
56 any day over 55 and 57.
56s are the nicest!!
I’m onboard with the best tri five package and colors. This one is in my favorite condition and unbelievably so!
It seems like every ’57 Nomad were in these colors in the day.
the days of these bringing good money are pretty much over. I sold mine while the getting was good. Nobody really wants these anymore. Not being mean or anything but at the current bid, its probably a good idea to sell. the younger generation will take that 30k and buy something in the 70s or 80’s just the way it goes as we get older.
The best looking of the tri-five Chevies. This one is really stand up. Just needs a motor, AC and brakes.
Yeah I know, keep it original but I’m old school.
My first car could have been one like this in black and white in 1961 for $650, prior owner was a dealership mechanic. Opted instead for a ‘46 Ford for $450. I still think about what could have been.
My favorite Tri-Five Chevy and this is a WOW factor! Nothing but gorgeous here!
I have one just like it , same color only it’s a 4 door with 45,000 original miles.
Also has fender skirts, that color combo is a eye catcher.
Well this is it. The best dash in history of cars, top 5 colors and of course sleekest design of the tri-fives. I would give up my 67 NovaSS for this car.
Glad to see, other people agree,56 is the best of the tri five chevies. Would love to own this car, but would really like a 3 on the tree!
When these first came out, owners must have had fun letting the gas station attendant figure out how to put gas in.
this is a very nice 1956 Chevrolet. How ever there are several things not correct on it. The Biggest one is the Oil Bath Air Filter. It must be off a 1957. I would post a picture of my Original one but don’t know how.
Absolutely beautiful 56, but you will groan when I let you know that my favorite tri-five is a tri-five plus one.. the sleek, low, wider, superb 1958 Impala…. all of the tri-five Interiors are beautiful..1957 is my favorite of the three.. the 1956 interior somehow reminds me of the Court Jester… but the materials and execution of the 1958 Impala interior is incomparable
Wow! What a presentation. Like all the others ‘56 has always been my favorite and this one is fantastic.