Chassis no. C55J167753

327-cid, OHV V-8 engine, four-speed manual transmission, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and front-disc, rear-drum hydraulic brakes. Wheelbase: 115.0-inches

Chevrolet advertised the 1955 V-8 as “The Hot One,” and for 1956 it was said to be “Even Hotter.” For decades, though, countless customizers have been making them hotter still. This car is an outstanding example.

Originally a six-cylinder car, it is now powered by a 327-cid Chevy small-block, fed by four two-barrel Weber carburetors. The transmission is a four-speed manual, and the brakes have been upgraded with discs in front.

Built by Alton Love of Elkhart, Indiana, it has a custom interior by Kasper of Waterford, Wisconsin. Done in orange-and-beige cloth, it has a matching headliner and interior panels. The trunk is finished to the same pattern and quality. Black-on-white Classic Instruments speedometer and tachometer have been fitted to the original binnacle, with individual gauges spanning the width of the dashboard. Power windows, seat belts, a tilt column and AM/FM/cassette stereo with power antenna complete the interior equipment.

The exterior paint is red over black, excellent in all respects. Contours and brightwork are also excellent, and the side glass has been decoratively etched.

The engine compartment is aglow in chrome and polished aluminum, including patterned valve covers, alternator, steering box, radiator header tank and battery box. The carburetors have gold-plated bodies and chrome air intakes. The firewall and fender liners are painted gloss red, the latter inside and out. The underside of the louvered hood is lined with polished aluminum. The undercarriage is likewise decorated, with chromed and patterned control arms, chrome stabilizer bars and polished springs contrasting with the gloss black frame. The car rides on Pirelli P5 blackwall tires mounted on Dayton chrome wire wheels with gold spokes.

With the hood closed, however, only the Dayton wheels betray the car’s secrets. Otherwise it looks like an extremely well restored ’55 Chevy, with no hint of the power hiding beneath nor the delights lurking therein.