1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop

This award-winning 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air has received a complete frame-off, show-quality restoration. Finished in Gypsy Red with a custom red interior, it is powered by a GM Goodwrench 350 crate engine producing more than 350 horsepower and paired with a 700R4 overdrive automatic transmission.

The Bel Air has earned more than 200 Best of Show awards, including first place at World of Wheels in 2011 and 2022, Hooters Grand Champion honors, a 99.99-out-of-100 score at a Showcase Classics event, and recognition as a George Barris pick. Approximately 2,200 miles have been driven since completion of the restoration.

VEHICLE HIGHLIGHTS

• Complete frame-off restoration
• More than 200 Best of Show awards
• GM Goodwrench 350 crate engine
• More than 350 horsepower
• 700R4 overdrive automatic transmission
• 12-bolt Moser rear axle
• 3.73 Positraction gearing
• Power steering
• Power front disc brakes
• Chrome tilt steering column
• Custom electronic instrumentation
• Custom upholstered trunk
• 15-inch Cragar wheels
• BFGoodrich tires
• Approximately 2,200 miles since restoration

EXTERIOR

The body is straight, solid, and properly aligned, with no visible evidence of rust or damage. The Gypsy Red paint has been polished to a smooth, deep gloss.

The exterior chrome has been restored or replaced throughout. Additional trim includes rocker moldings, door-handle guards, and fuel-door molding. The weatherstripping has been replaced, along with the windshield and side glass.

The Bel Air rides on polished 15-inch Cragar wheels fitted with BFGoodrich tires.

INTERIOR

The custom red interior features upholstered seats, reproduction door panels, a replacement headliner with chrome bows, red tight-loop carpeting, and Lloyd’s floor mats. The painted interior trim has a smooth, glossy finish.

Vintage-style electronic gauges combine a classic appearance with modern operation, including LED backlighting and a digital message center. Additional equipment includes a chrome tilt steering column, custom steering wheel, B&M floor shifter, padded dashboard, bowtie rearview mirror, and billet pedals.

The electrical system has been updated with new wiring and modern push-in fuses. A stereo system is neatly installed inside the glovebox.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

The highly detailed engine compartment houses a GM Goodwrench 350 crate engine producing more than 350 horsepower. Performance equipment includes an EnduraShine intake manifold, Edelbrock carburetor, polished aluminum valve covers, polished breathers, chrome air cleaner, coated headers, and an MSD ignition system.

A billet accessory-drive system features polished brackets and pulleys with a serpentine belt. Additional equipment includes a billet power-steering pump with stainless-steel hoses, billet alternator, chrome water pump, aluminum radiator, chrome electric cooling fan, overflow reservoir, and polished hard coolant lines.

The power-brake booster and master cylinder are chrome plated. Additional polished and chrome-finished components include the radiator cover, wiper cover, hood hinges, battery box, fuel pump, and core support. All painted surfaces are finished to a smooth, show-quality standard.

TRUNK COMPARTMENT

The trunk has been boxed and fully upholstered for a clean custom appearance. The underside of the trunk lid is finished in glossy paint and features custom inserts.

CHASSIS AND UNDERSIDE

The body was removed from the frame during the restoration. The floors, structural braces, and rocker panels are solid and free of visible rust. The prepared floor structure is finished in glossy red, while the disassembled chassis was restored and painted black.

The steering and suspension systems were completely rebuilt with replacement springs, shocks, bushings, ball joints, and related components. The rear suspension features air shocks and traction bars.

The fuel system was renewed with a polished fuel tank and stainless-steel fuel lines. The braking system was completely rebuilt and upgraded with front disc brakes.

A dual-exhaust system features Cherry Bomb mufflers and stainless-steel tailpipes. The underside of the engine is exceptionally clean, and the starter presents like new.

Power is transferred through a 700R4 overdrive automatic transmission with an aluminum pan and a custom driveshaft. A 12-bolt Moser rear axle with 3.73 Positraction gearing and a chrome differential cover completes the drivetrain.