Every Wednesday I'd like to feature a fun vehicle that I would love to own myself. Today's car of the day is.
1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
This classic is not only beautiful but a great collector car.
For 1955, Chevrolet's full-size model received all new styling and power. It was called the "Hot One" in GM's advertising campaign. Chevrolet's styling was crisp, clean and incorporated a Ferrari-inspired grille. Bel Airs came with features found on cars in the lower models ranges plus interior carpet, chrome headliner bands on hardtops, chrome spears on front fenders, stainless steel window moldings,[1] and full wheel covers. Models were further distinguished by the Bel Air name script in gold lettering later in the year.[8] For 1955, Chevrolets gained a V8 engine option.and the option of a 2-speed automatic transmission Powerglide or a three-speed manual transmission with optional overdrive. The new 265 cu in (4,340 ccs) V8 featured a modern,overhead valve high compression, short stroke design that was so good that it remained in production in various displacements for many decades. The base V8 had a two-barrel carburetor and was rated at 162 hp (121 kW), and the "Power Pack" option featured a four-barrel carburetor and other upgrades yielding 180 bhp (130 kW). Later in the year, a "Super Power Pack" option added high-compression and a further 15 bhp (11 kW). "Idiot" lights replaced gauges for the generator and oil pressure.[9]
Motor Trend magazine gave the Bel Air top marks for handling.[9] Popular Mechanics reported acceleration for a V8 Bel Air with Powerglide as being 0-60 mph in 12.9 seconds, plus a comfortable ride, and good visibility. On the other hand, the horn ring blocked some of the speedometers, regular gasoline made the engine knock, and the first V8 engine off the line burned too much oil.[10] Front legroom was 43.1".[1] Brakes were 11" drums.[11] A new option for V8-equipped 1955 models was air conditioning, with outlets on each side of the dashboard; a heavy-duty generator was included on cars equipped with this option.
Price 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air $57,900
Contact Best of Show Automotive
MUSEUM and SHOWROOM:
7700 Tyler Blvd., Mentor, Ohio 44060
Phone: (440) 350-1480
Fax: (440) 350-1638
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thank you for commenting!