265 CID V8 - 2BBL - Powerglide Automatic - P.Top - Same Owner Nearly 25 Years

This 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible is an absolutely gorgeous Tri-Five Chevy that just screams fifties! 1955 marked the start of a golden era for General Motors' entry-level marque, Chevrolet, both mechanically and stylistically. On the mechanical side, the biggest improvement was Chevrolet's debut of its "Turbo-Fire" 265 cubic inch V8 engine, that would be Chevy's first foray into V8 power since President Woodrow Wilson lived in the White House. Not only was Chevy's 265 V8 touted for its improved power output potential, it would also become the foundation for the most popular and longest produced Chevrolet motor of all time, the "small block Chevy" or "SBC" for short. The other major mechanical improvement was an upgrade from a 6 volt electrical system to a more reliable 12 volt system that improved electrical performance across all electrical components in Chevy's '55 lineup. Perhaps the most noticeable change for Chevrolet occurred to the exterior redesign of Chevrolet's passenger car line. These changes would kick off a period of Chevrolet design known as the Tri-Five era that would catapult Chevy's design into the second half of the 20th Century. Looking at a 1955 Chevy from the front, the cars looked more modern complete with their (now) iconic "hooded" headlights, restyled grilles and bumpers, and a cutting-edge wraparound "panoramic" windshield. The front ends also were more square in appearance that gave the cars a bold new look. From the side profile, the biggest change in 1955 was the removal of the swooping body lines of yesteryear, replaced in favor of a flatter, more simplistic, and thus more modern silhouette. The side of the 1955 Bel Airs also featured special side trim that distinguished the top-of-the-line Chevrolets from both the entry-level 150 and mid-level 210, but also from their competition at GM and the other American automakers. The rear end treatment also was completely revised now sporting a new taillight design paired with squarer body lines that would further contribute to the futuristic styling of the '55 Chevys as well. The '55 Bel Airs also featured the plushest and most luxurious trim of all of the Chevys that year, and arguably every year up until 1955. From the seat patterns to the door panels to the iconic dash and instrument cluster, the '55 Chevy set the stage of what was to come in automotive style. This particular 1955 Bel Air comes to us out of a prominent private collection where it spent nearly the past 25 years. Powering this '55 Bel Air is a 265 Cubic Inch V8 engine fed by a single 2 barrel carburetor that was said to have created 162 horsepower when new. The 265 V8 is backed by a Powerglide Automatic Transmission that makes this 1955 Chevy an easy car for anybody to take for a spin around the block. This 1955 Chevrolet rides on a set of wide whitewall bias-ply tires on steel wheels with full wheelcovers that give this convertible a truly classic look rolling down the road. In addition, the rear wheels are tucked behind a pair of color-matched fender skirts which are always a welcome addition on any 50s classic car. Dual chrome outside mirrors are a fantastic add-on to this 1955 Bel Air since it makes squeezing into or out of a tight space much easier. The front bumper is also outfitted with a chrome bumper guard the further elevates the exterior appearance of this convertible. The white vinyl power convertible top is in wonderful condition and it goes up and down with the simple flick of a switch. When the convertible top is down, it tucks neatly under an ivory vinyl boot tonneau cover. The exterior of this 1955 Bel Air Convertible has been refinished correctly in a beautiful two-tone paint scheme consisting of Regal Turquoise and India Ivory. The interior of this 1955 Chevrolet Bel-Air Convertible is gorgeous! The front and rear bench seats have been correctly reupholstered in beautiful Turquoise and Ivory vinyl that matches the exterior look of the car. The upholstered door panels, carpeting, painted dash, and steering wheel are all in wonderful condition and appear to be in their stock configuration. The instrument cluster retains its stock appearance and is equipped with a 110 MPH speedometer, temperature gauge, and fuel gauge, along with indicator lights for the turn signals, generator charging and oil pressure. The dash is completed with a push-button AM radio, locking glovebox, clock, and integrated speaker. Whether you're buying your very first classic car or you're adding to an existing collection of Tri-Fives, this 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible would make an excellent addition. Give Ellingson's a call today at 763-428-7337!