1956 Chevrolet Bel Air

Description

A nicely done Tri-five, ready for endless nights of cruising, for less than $30K??? Classic two-tone paint, a modern small block, power everything and air, all in a solid chassis with excellent fit and finish - what more could you ask for?

When it comes to finding a great baseline for a project, you simply can't go wrong with a tri-five. Two-door, four-door, wagon, or otherwise, they all offer timeless styling that each new generation of auto enthusiasts grow to love. While the four-door is probably the least utilized, this car certainly makes you wonder why. The rear doors virtually disappear when shut, giving the car a sporty look with accessibility a two-door simply can't touch. The straight body lines are covered in a combination of black and white paint, accented by a lengthy list of new trim that certainly didn't come cheap.

Lift the hood on this tri-five and you'll find a continuation of the GM small block – a modern LT1. Offering commendable fuel economy and OEM reliability, this fuel-injected mill is centerpiece of the car. Thanks to a few modifications from Street and Performance, it also makes more power than any of the car's original engine options. At the front, cool air is drawn through a rectangular filter element which sits in line with a new serpentine belt drive system that spins accessories such as an alternator, air conditioning compressor, and power steering pump. Given all the modern additions, the installation is remarkably tidy and shows well. Behind the small block, a reliable 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duties with confidence.

Underneath the car, you'll find clean floors and suspension components finished in satin black for durability and drivability. Judging by the rock solid floors and frame, this was an extremely solid platform to build on. Nice additions include power steering (with all new components) and power brakes with all new lines and hoses. There's also a stainless exhaust system from the headers back to the stainless tips, offering a great bark to go along with the modern performance At the corners, Cragar Pro-Star wheels wrapped in 215/70/15 and 245/60/15 white-letter tires complete the car with a race-friendly look.

Few cars on our showroom floor mix comfort and livability quite like this '56. Done in a classic mix of black and white vinyl, the interior has a nostalgic look with plenty of modern upgrades. There's a Grant GT steering wheel on the tilt column in front of you, a mix of GM and aftermarket gauges, a bowtie-branded head unit playing the tunes, and ice cold A/C to keep everyone happy on those hot summer nights. Fully sorted and ready to cruise, it's hard to imagine a better companion to explore the back roads with.

With its extra set of doors, comfortable interior and solid drive train, this is a driver to keep for the long haul. It's a classic and it's finished right. The RKM Performance Center team has just gone through the car and given it their 'ready to go' Seal of Approval. Where you go is up to you! If you've been looking for a nice cruise night Tri-five, this is not a car to pass on!