The 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air two-door hardtop has undergone a remarkable refurbishment and customization process in 2011, courtesy of D&D Specialty Cars from Van Buren, Arkansas. This captivating classic beauty now boasts a stunning red exterior combined with luxurious tan leather upholstery. However, the true essence of its transformation lies beneath the hood, where a formidable 5.7-liter LS6 V8 engine is paired with a 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission and a Ford 9″ Positraction rear end, providing an exhilarating driving experience. Let’s delve into the details of this one-of-a-kind modified Bel Air that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide.
Refurbished Exterior: A Vintage Dream Reborn
The Bel Air’s exterior underwent a meticulous refinishing process under previous ownership, with Guards Red being the color of choice. As part of the refurbishment, the side mirrors were removed, the chrome bumpers were seamlessly smoothed, and the stainless trim pieces received a fresh finish, adding a touch of modernity to its classic appeal. The car’s captivating exterior is further enhanced by HID headlights, LED taillights, a retractable antenna, and iconic Bel Air badging.
Staggered-Diameter Wheels & RideTech Suspension: The Perfect Blend
Mounted with polished 18″ and 20″ Boyd Coddington wheels, wrapped in Toyo Proxes S/T tires, this Bel Air exhibits a perfect blend of style and performance. The car’s handling is elevated by the inclusion of a RideTech suspension system featuring air shocks, tubular upper and lower control arms, and a front sway bar, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. Additionally, the four-link rear setup with a pan hard bar provides enhanced stability and control during spirited driving. The red-finished Wilwood six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, combined with drilled and slotted disc brakes, ensure reliable stopping power.
Luxurious Interior: Where Vintage Meets Comfort
Step inside the Bel Air, and you’ll be greeted by power-operated front bucket seats upholstered in elegant beige leather, which extends to the custom-fabricated rear seats, headliner, and door panels. The interior is designed to combine vintage charm with modern comfort. The center console houses essential features such as a Vintage Air climate control panel, Lokar shifter, air ride switches, front and rear cupholders, and an Alpine CD stereo. Various amenities, including power windows, door- and rear-mounted speakers, dual dome lights, and lap belts for all occupants, add to the car’s luxurious appeal.
Technology and Gauges: A Fusion of Classic and Modern Elements
The Bel Air boasts a polished three-spoke steering wheel on an Ididit tilt column, complementing the Classic Instruments 140-mph speedometer, tachometer, and auxiliary gauges. The body-color dash features an analog clock and Air Ride Technology gauges, adding a touch of modernity to the classic interior.
Powertrain and Performance: Unleashing the LS6 V8 Beast
The heart of this modified Bel Air is its 5.7-liter LS6 V8 engine, a crate engine purchased from Street & Performance of Mena, Arkansas. Installed by R&P Machine Shop of Tecumseh, Oklahoma, this powerful engine boasts Griffin polished aluminum radiator, dual electric fans, and eye-catching Bel Air-branded valve covers. Chrome-finished accents, such as the intake manifold, air inlet tube, pulleys, alternator, and air conditioning compressor, add to the engine’s visual appeal.
Smooth Transmission and Rear End Power
Power is seamlessly transmitted to the rear wheels through a 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission, featuring a Specialty Auto Tech cooler and an aluminum driveshaft. The Ford 9″ Positraction rear end with 3.55:1 gearing provides excellent traction and performance. The dual-exhaust system, equipped with tubular ceramic headers and Flowmaster mufflers, completes the powertrain setup, ensuring an exhilarating driving experience.
Magazine Featured and Ready for a New Journey
This LS6-powered 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-Door Hardtop isn’t just a beautiful classic car; it also has a notable history. It was featured in a 2012 issue of Street Rodder magazine, a testament to its allure and uniqueness. Now, this stunning classic car is offered in Massachusetts, accompanied by the magazine it was featured in, and it comes with a clean California title, making it ready for its next adventure with a new owner.
The LS6-powered 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-Door Hardtop is a remarkable fusion of classic beauty and modern power. Its captivating exterior, luxurious interior, and formidable LS6 V8 engine make it a true standout among classic car enthusiasts. This unique vehicle, with its intriguing history and exceptional upgrades, is poised to capture the hearts of automotive enthusiasts and vintage car aficionados alike.
FAQs:
- Is this Bel Air street-legal?
- Yes, this Bel Air comes with a clean California title, ensuring it meets all necessary requirements for street-legal operation.
- How many miles has the car traveled since the refurbishment?
- The car’s mechanical odometer shows 338 miles since the refurbishment, adding to its pristine condition.
- Can I take this Bel Air to car shows?
- Absolutely! The car has a history of winning car show awards in 2012, making it a perfect showpiece at automotive events.
- What kind of brakes does it have?
- The car is equipped with red-finished Wilwood six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers over drilled and slotted disc brakes for exceptional braking performance.
- Does the Bel Air have air conditioning?
- Yes, it features a Vintage Air climate control system, ensuring a comfortable driving experience in any weather condition.
