V8/4-Speed: 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad

Introduced as part of the Tri-Five range, Chevrolet’s Bel Air Nomad gave the traditional Station Wagon a more sporting look. The problem was that, because it was expensive, sales volumes were lower than the company expected. This 1956 Nomad is an older refurbishment featuring a few upgrades. The most significant is the later V8, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. The seller says it is essentially solid and a turnkey proposition. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Nomad listed here on Craigslist in Valley, Washington, with an asking price of $39,000.

When Chevrolet released its legendary Tri-Five range in 1955, buyers could order a traditional 4-door Station Wagon. However, it had unveiled a 2-door concept at the 1954 General Motors Motorama that featured a sloping B-Pillar, and such was the response that it added it to the range as the Nomad. It wore Bel Air badges and was one of the company’s most expensive passenger cars. This Nomad rolled off the line in 1956, with the seller describing it as an older refurbishment. The paint shade is a mystery, because it seems to change depending on the prevailing light. From some angles it looks like Nassau Blue, while from others, it resembles Twilight Turquoise. The paint looks very respectable, with no major marks or imperfections. The panels are straight, and the seller states that a previous owner replaced the floors. It has a small amount of typical rust in the spare wheel well. Otherwise, this Nomad appears rock-solid. Some trim pieces are new, while others show deterioration that might improve with polish.

Whatever drivetrain this Nomad featured when it left the line is irrelevant, because many changes lie beneath the skin. Its engine bay now houses a low-mileage V8 from a 1978, although its capacity is unstated. It sends its power to the road via a four-speed manual transmission, with the Nomad also equipped with power brakes. This motor could be either the 305 or the 350, both of which should potentially produce more power and torque than the range-topping 265 from 1956. It features an aluminum intake and headers, which will improve breathing. The seller states that this Nomad runs and drives well and is a turnkey proposition, ready for action.

The builder didn’t go overboard with the interior, retaining the bench front seat and unmolested dash with its factory clock and radio. However, it does feature custom Black vinyl upholstery on the seats and door trims, which is in good condition. There is no appreciable wear or evidence of abuse, although it needs a wipe with a damp cloth to remove a few dirty marks! The matching carpet is excellent, and the cargo area is a genuine highlight. It has none of the scuff marks or other problems typically found in family wagons. The interior won’t score many show trophies, but it also won’t embarrass the new owner.

The Bel Air Nomad was one of Chevrolet’s most expensive passenger cars in 1956, and with a production total of 7,886, it is the rarest ’56 wearing a Bel Air badge. Our featured classic isn’t perfect and would require work to reach that standard. However, its rust issues appear relatively minor, and the seller’s price looks realistic. It has only been on the market for a few days, and it will be interesting to see how quickly this Nomad finds a new home.