AutoHunter Spotlight: 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible

A tasteful hot rod version of an already tasteful car

Nineteen fifty-five was what arguably is Chevrolet’s most significant year. With fresh styling exploiting the best Harley Earl had to offer — something historically reserved for General Motors’ more prestigious brands — and Chevrolet’s first V8 since 1918, GM’s price leader had verve and soul that was never part of its persona till now. From this point on, Chevrolet would play a new role in the American consciousness, one that would propel it as America’s premiere performance brand.

One of those cars, a rust-free 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible, is currently featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com. Powered by a newer BluePrint Engines 350ci V8 backed by a five-speed manual transmission, this black Bel Air convertible features four-wheel power disc brakes, RetroSound Wonderbar AM/FM radio and more. Additionally, the seller will include owner’s and repair manuals, receipts, dealer brochure and a clear Wisconsin title.

Unusual for a 1950s cruiser, the exterior of this Bel Air has been refinished in an arresting monotone black paint job paired with a white convertible top. Other features include bumper guards, headlights with tri-bar lenses, a chrome grille, chrome side-view mirrors and accessory fender and rocker trim. The seller will include body-color fender skirts with the sale.

A set of black Cragar Series 342 “D” Window steel wheels with chrome center caps and stainless trims rings is wrapped in whitewall radial tires, which nicely contrast with the shiny black flanks.

The red and white vinyl interior features red carpet with matching floor mats, floor-mounted manual shifter, tilt steering column and white convertible top boot. A Bluetooth-compatible RetroSound Wonderbar AM/FM radio is adept at streaming both Bill Haley and his Comets, and the Stray Cats equally.

The new Dakota Digital VHX analog gauge cluster includes a 160-mph speedometer, 8,000-rpm tachometer and gauges for the coolant temperature, oil pressure, voltage and fuel level. The digital odometer currently reads 2,367 miles, which reflects the mileage on the new engine.

A new BluePrint Engines 350ci V8 crate engine was installed in 2020. It is connected to a five-speed manual transmission, something that no one would have imagined in 1955. Underhood features include chrome valve covers, chrome power brake booster, alternator and master cylinder set, aluminum radiator and chrome air cleaner.

Like most American cars of the period, this Chevy is factory-equipped with an independent front suspension and a solid rear-drive axle. Braking has received modern updates via four-wheel power discs. A full-length dual exhaust system exits under the rear bumper. Additional undercarriage photos can be seen in the image carousel on the auction page.