$17,000
The Bel Air is a full-size car produced by Chevrolet from 1949 to 1981. Initially, from 1950 to 1952, only the two-door hardtops were called Bel Airs, but in 1953 the Bel Air name became a designation for a unique body shape at the top trim level across a number of body styles. The Bel Air is widely considered by enthusiasts to be a 50s icon.
The Bel Air is a full-size car produced by Chevrolet from 1949 to 1981. Initially, from 1950 to 1952, only the two-door hardtops were called Bel Airs, but in 1953 the Bel Air name became a designation for a unique body shape at the top trim level across a number of body styles. The Bel Air is widely considered by enthusiasts to be a 50s icon.
1955 marked the start of the second generation of the Bel Air. Previously manufactured only with inline-six motors, ’55 marked the entry of an optional V8 into the engine lineup for Bel Air buyers as well as two new transmission options. The 1956 model, like today’s example, received a facelift that gave the car a full-width grille to please consumers who didn’t like the Ferrari-inspired front end on the ’55 model. This specific Bel Air is fitted with an in-line six motor that appears to have been rebuilt, mated to a factory automatic. One upgrade under the hood is a GM 12-volt alternator.
This Bel Air sports a wonderful two-tone red and ivory paint job. Not surprising though, since this car has been both repainted and retrimmed sometime within the last decade. The paint clearly was smoothly applied across the entire car, and there are few imperfections of note on the exterior. Furthermore, all of the chrome elements were removed from the car and were either replaced or polished, replated, and reinstalled. The hubcaps and white wall tires at all four corners are clean. The chrome looks fantastic, and all of the glass looks excellent.
This Bel Air’s interior has been completely redone with period correct seat covers, door panels, floor coverings, dash trim, headliner, and package trays. All steel components inside were repainted, and the trim around the inside presents nicely. This interior is the full stock look with the exception of an aftermarket AM/FM stereo that has been fitted underneath the air vents. The speedometer is clean and clear, and the red Bakelite steering wheel shows no imperfections. The two-tone bench seat up front looks excellent, with no holes or tears to be seen. All four door panels are clean, and the material is tight. Overall, this is an excellent interior that is definitely ready for show.
We are pleased to report that the high quality of this restoration continues underneath the vehicle as well. New bushings and hardware are present at all four corners of the suspension system. The underside of the floorboards were painted red to match the rest of the car.
The seller purchased this car in the early 2000’s. He knows for a fact that the car was fully restored but doesn’t know who did the work. It starts up immediately and runs totally fine. The tires on the car are new and have plenty of tread left on them.
The enthusiasts are right, the Bel Air is most certainly an icon of the 50s. Big chrome bumpers and the gorgeous two-tone paintjob harken back to simpler times where a gallon of gas only cost 29 cents. This Bel Air is a fantastic restoration job, and this is an excellent opportunity to take home an absolutely wonderful automobile.
The Market by Bonhams is excited to offer this Bel Air for online auction with no reserve, and an estimate between $20,000 and $30,000.
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS:
All cars from the Southern Gem Collection must be paid in full within 48 hours and collected within two weeks of auction end. Collection must be done with a flatbed or trailer and is strictly by appointment only. In the event a car is not removed timely the owner reserves the right to remove the car to storage at the Buyer’s risk and expense, whereupon the Buyer shall become liable for uplift, removal, storage and handling charges.
