Harry's Thoughts
THE ESSENTIALS
This is a wonderful example of a survivor. This Bel Air convertible is said to have sat for decades in a barn in Tennessee. The seats, carpet, chrome and stainless are all original from the factory. This Bel Air has received one respray many years ago and door panels, top and other components have been replaced or maintained as appropriate.
This is an all numbers matching car. It is purported to have under 30,000 original miles. We cannot verify this claim, however if you look under the dash you will see nothing has been touched, and in the engine compartment it looks the same, lots of originality in both places that leads us to believe its true, the car is a remarkable example and fabulous survivor. We have supplied scores of detailed photos to help aid the evaluation of the condition. In addition, we recently completed a 50 mile tour with the American Bugatti Club and the car handled brilliantly.
The motor is the original Power Pak 265 cu in V8 with 205 hp, with motor number 0044568, FB Code. The power is transmitted through the original Power glide automatic transmission. The car also has the original factory power steering, electric wipers, power top and heater.
The front and rear seats are original upholstery with the original clear plastic covers. This really makes the car special and increasingly rare. These cars are only original once! The paint was done many years ago and matches the patina of the interior fairly well. The paint was done in a 1955 color, turquoise with ivory. The exterior color was originally twilight turquoise.
The car is a blast .Even the old tube radio works, It is a wonderful driver to enjoy as is or restore later. Car has issues with some rust and body filler, restoration would require repairs in floors and quarter panels, lower doors, some areas in trunk, and all rocker panels. This resto is certainly not necessary for the car to be enjoyed because the car has a look about it that is neat as it is. However if you at some time in the the future do decide to restore it is a Power Pak Bel Air Convertible with Power Steering and top in a color scheme that is extremely desirable! If you’re going to restore a car put your money in where you can get your money out.
Below is a link to a good guide to determine 56 car values.
Haggerty values — http://www.hagerty.com/valuationtools/HVT/VehicleSearch/Report?vc=175130
This would be a terrific car for touring or local car shows. It would be a nice addition to any collection. For more details please call Harry at 602.245.7200 or email us at harry@classicpromenade.com. Please note that this Chevy is located in Illinois.
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