The famous Chevy “Tri Fives” began with the 1955 models and sold nearly 1.8 million cars that year, including 189,000 Bel Air Sport Coupes like this one. These cars were popular then and now because they could be quite the performers in a relatively light body. This car hasn’t been on the road for some 50 years and has undergone a restoration that has not been completed. The seller says everything is there is finish the job. Located in Chicago, Illinois, this white over red beauty is available here on craigslist for $20,500. Our thanks to KENNETH j ATHON for sending this tip our way!
We’re told this car was last registered in 1969 and has been in dry stage for years. It appears that a restoration was started and stopped at some point, but we don’t know how long ago. The seller says its rust-free now and has always been. The body shell, fender, door, floor pans, floor bracing and trunk pan all are in good shape. All the parts that were removed for the work are still present in or around the car, along with an extra set of fiberglass fenders and hood. It sits on 1970s Cragar mag wheels that are still good, but and the tires are said to be like new, but after 40 years?
The drivetrain is not original to the Chevy. In fact, it’s not even correct to the era. A small block 350 cubic inch V8 is under the hood (well, where it would be), matched to a 4-speed manual transmission. We don’t know how long ago they ran or how potent they are today. It would be good to know if any upgrades have been made to the powerplant to turn it into a street screamer.
From what we can see of the interior, it’s been redone in non-stock materials, but that was probably years ago as the seams in the front seat are beginning to split. The seller has a photo of two hoods, one with a scoop. An interesting piece is the cowl tag – its all shiny and polished. Did someone try to restore it, or could it be a reproduction?
If all the parts are there as claimed and you’re pretty handy in the shop, this car could be back out on the road sooner rather than later. A nice ’55 Bel Air like this can be worth more than $40,000 when fully assembled and running like clockwork. I’m guessing that the more modern drivetrain would be a deduction, but since so many of these cars have been changed like this, does it matter much these days?
This thing is screaming to be back on the road. I love the stance, has that aggressive street/strip look. However, judging by the pics id say the description is a bit off. It states rust free but the pics show rust. Almost seems like a frame on resto, aka repaint. Would like to own this ride but would take it back apart to address the aging. Being within 2 hours away it makes it tempting as a project but im more of a ’56 guy. Good luck to new owner, good start ahead of you.
I had a black tri-five 55 hardtop like this in HS. This looks like a fun project and a nice starter condition.
Its definitely a great looking no post vehicle. If i had the garage space i would definitely pick up this fun project.
Please never cut the rear wheel wells on this classic!!!!!!
I remember my 327 340 hp four speed beast lighting the tires up and racing on Friday nights. No “American Graffiti” 55 chev dragging and then loosing control and laying on its side with the cowboy (Harrison Ford) 🤠 From racing John aka Paul LE Matt coupe recreations ever occurring. 😉
One of the beat cutting edge movie George Lucas 🎥 made. The music and sounds coming from inside the cars and other tricks told the director was to make fiture great sci fi movies to come
If you look at the pictures you will see that the rear wheel openings have been cut/modified on this car, they may be the original shape but they have been raise about 4 or 5 inches
I can’t really tell if the wheel wells were cut, but in looks like the wheel well is sitting on top of the tire
When I sold parts at shows on the rust, I mean, East coast, many buyers would comment, hey George, this only has 10 rust holes, yours, the buyer with his friend, says, yours has 30.
Chrome, same thing, 10 pits, theirs, 30 pits.
It became a less is cheaper than NOS items.
I sold NOS only, except rust free desert fenders. I would take 82 fender and sell all.
Moral, their term for rust free is different than mine.
And, the word Restore is so abused. Not restored with a hole in the hood, paint color change, surface rust on whatever.
Restore means to put back as that individual vehicle was built new.
Not adding a 350 ho hum engine. The 265 was a piece of crap, had one in a 55 Bel Air in 1964. No oil filter as it was an option, well duh.
So, no restore here. I pass. Remember the line, Low Priced Three? It was cheaply made.
I bought a rusty ’55 2-door post 6 cyl in ’62. Swapped in a warmed up 270″ GMC, 4 spd and 4:11 posi. Low buck trophy getter. What fun!
I love this car and it would be amazing finished. 20 years ago all you saw at car shows were tri fives. Now they seem to be missing. Perhaps the owners are over going to shows.
They’re likely over going to a lot more than just car shows, lol!
I have seen them done for 25000 I would go 15000
Mark… You have to admit it’s a well done subtle modification. A 2 inch lowering of the car would fit those rear wheel openings just fine. Nice car.