Chassis no. VC56O056395

265-cid, 205-hp OHV V-8 engine, two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel power hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 115.0-inches

When you’ve got a winner, how do you top it? Well, Chevrolet’s ad agency figured out a way. “The Hot One,” as the 1955 V-8 had been dubbed, “is even hotter” read the 1956 ads. This referred to the high-compression, four-barrel, dual-exhaust Power Pack option, which now developed 205-hp, courtesy of higher compression. The 1956 Chevrolets were mildly restyled, leading to improved market share.

This tidy 1956 Bel Air Convertible Coupe has the complete Power Pack installation, along with Powerglide automatic. Power accessories were becoming more popular in the low-priced field, as evidenced by this car’s power steering. Other options include a pushbutton radio, windshield washers and faux wire wheel covers. A set of teardrop fender skirts is included. Contours, paint and chrome are all in excellent condition, and the doors shut well and have even gaps. The interior is done in contrasting vinyls, reprising the turquoise and white colors of the body. The top is white vinyl with a matching boot. The engine compartment is correctly detailed, and the undercarriage is clean.

Chevrolet reigned as number one in 1956, both in sales and in hotness. This car shows why.