‘The Hot One’s Even Hotter‘ – the Chevrolet sales literature told us when the new fresh and frisky ’56 Chevrolets were launched. Following on from the amazingly popular ’55 Chevy there was now an even more powerful V8 and the new cars sported a mild face-lift.
There was now a full-width grille, revised bumpers and a new V emblem on the hood now revealed there was a V8 under there.
The side trim now ran the full length of the car, as we can see on this 1956 Chevrolet Sport Coupe (2-door pillarless hardtop). At the rear of the car it appeared to sweep back giving it the look of motion. Under the left taillight was a concealed gas filler.
Inside this Chevy we find a turquoise vinyl and pattern cloth interior which was one of five combinations available for the Bel Air Sport Coupe and Sedan.
As you can see, the Bel Air used very striking lounge interiors.
This particular car was the subject of a very detailed, frame-off restoration quite some time ago. It was then kept in a private collection and has covered under 500 miles since it was completed.
If you wanted to order a Chevrolet Bel Air 2-door hardtop (model 2454) during the 1956 model year, they had a base price of $2,176 for the six cylinder version. Another $99 got you the 265 cubic inch Turbo-Fire V8 that this Bel Air is equipped with.
For those that wanted an automatic transmission (also fitted to this car) they could order a Powerglide for a further $189.
Other options available at the time included: an electric clock ($17.65), AM radio ($63.50), power steering ($92), electric windshield wipers ($16), heater and defroster ($95).
This 56 Chevy is currently for sale on eBay. (follow the link for lots more photos)
Love this car!