When the “Tri-Five” Chevrolets were in production from 1955 to 1957, three levels of trim were offered based on the level of your budget. The 150 was for basic transportation, while the Bel Air was top-of-the-line. In the middle was the 210, of which 300,000 4-door sedans found homes in 1956 alone. The seller’s car looks like a survivor, though the seat covers appear newer than the rest of the vehicle. With the seller having too many “toys”, this Chevy can be found in Boonville, New York, and here on craigslist for $9,995. A thumbs up to “Zappenduster” for the Bow-Tie tip!
This ’56 210 appears to have come with few options when new. It has the standard 235 cubic inch inline-6, though Chevy’s new 265 CI V8 was available. It also has a “3-on-the-tree” manual transmission instead of the optional 2-speed Powerglide. The color selection was black, with a tan and black interior. Since the seat covers are blue, we’re guessing these were redone after decades of use.
The ignition has been upgraded to electronic, and the fuel pump is new. With good tires and brakes, we’re told this Chevy is a great runner and apparently doesn’t need anything more than a new home. Most of the black paint is 70 years old and looks its age, but I would leave well enough alone. The odometer says 32,000 miles, so surely it’s on its second time around.
We’re told this 210 is capable of any road trip you might want to take it on. So surely it will be fine for weekend jaunts to Cars & Coffee. The seller has managed to collect too many cars, so this Chevy is on the chopping block. As this is New York State, a transferable registration will have to suffice over a title. If you’re looking for a daily driver that’s not exactly a looker, maybe this Chevy is the one for you.
When I look at this, I see a time of peace and rising prosperity. People may not realize today, it took a good 10 years after the war for things to improve. Sadly, Korea helped kickstart the economy there, but by 1956, people had good jobs. My grandparents( the Rambler one) didn’t have a car until the early 50s, a worn ’51 Chevy. I read, this car cost $1960 new, as equipped, although they got more than you might think. It was well within the means of a family, especially in Milwaukee, things were a hummin’ in the 50s, and what better way, than a new Chevrolet. I’d have to question the author, I think this is 32K. We have to remember, people just didn’t drive like today, and 132K would be a lot worse, if at all. Again the stick, I just don’t know what’s going to happen to these great cars next time around. A wonderful find from when this was good enough. Besides, by 1956, everyone was singing the Dinah Shore Chevy jingle,( 1951-1963),,”See the USA, in your Chevrolet”,,,and we did.
Yeah, I’m with Howard on his mileage claim. Back in the day by the time the odo was approaching 70-80K the appearance was markedly different from this example. At 132k it would have moved on to greener pastures. The limited amount of corrosion showing on this NY registration backs my theory. A fine example from “simpler” times. Should be cleaned up and enjoyed exactly the way it is. Precious few exist in that form today.
Honestly, if this were (a lot) closer to Texas, I’d consider tossing an offer on it. Looks like an old war horse that, even as is, would gather a few thumbs up as you putted down the street. It would be fun to take out on weekends while you made improvements here and there. Definitely deserves to live out her life with dignity.
For some reason local buyers don’t see the value at $9,995 since it’s been listed for nearly 4 weeks. As for too many cars, he has 15 others currently listed on Craigslist.
This might be a decent project at 1/2 the price.
Steve R
i agree with all the comments. a car from a simpler time and fairly priced. clean it up and drive it.
In the early 70s I had a ’56 post 4 door and I couldn’t give it away.
Looks like electronic ignition, a new steering box, and what appears to be electric wipers have been added. That would make the driving experience much better in the rain.
I learned to drive stick on ours the same as this one but the 110. I always wondered why the woman who sold it to us opted for whitewalls.
How many Corvairs do you have?
Both this and that 68 Ford convertible are excellent values as opposed to pristine trailer queens for $100k!
Great daily driver. Reminds me of the ‘60 4dr, 6 inline, 3 on the tree Belair I had for a few years back in the mid 80’s living in the lower east side of Manhatten. Try parallel parking that chevy in the city on a regular basis!
Same basic thing with this 210, but it’s that much cooler. Looks like a solid runner ready to be pressed back into service. The 6 & 3 are all you need, even up on the interstates. The only change I’d make is to dump the electronic ignition, points are perfect for an old driver like this. Parking is easier here in Brooklyn too so maybe it wouldn’t be too bad now 40 years on.
Would love to be in position to make an offer.
All about the kiss principle, ‘keep it simple stupid’.
That’s a new one on me, love it. I will plagerize.