While certain Chevrolet enthusiasts prefer the subtlety of the 1955 Chevrolet and others favor the more flamboyant 1957 models, many appreciate the 1956 line as the perfect balance. Subtle changes to the Chevy’s body design in 1956 gave it a new and lighter appearance, while a growing list of available powertrain options proved that these cars were more than rolling sculptures. Thanks to the lower weight of the small-block V-8 and a high power-to-weight ratio, the V-8 powered 1956 Chevrolet models were rightly advertised by Chevrolet as the “Hot Ones.” To further the claims, the 1956 Bel Air was often advertised as a Pikes Peak Hillclimb record breaker. The car proved its performance on the towering grades in the thin air of altitudes up to 14,110 feet. It proved it had “cat-footed” cornering ability and “nailed-down stability” on the vicious switchback turns of the legendary Pikes Peak course bettering the class record.

By this time, Chevrolet had begun creating very competitive performance packages around the small-block engine, and all 1955-57 models have a strong following because of their timeless styling cues and this performance heritage – a heritage that basically ended the dominance of the flathead Ford V-8 in street performance applications. The 1956 Chevrolets were mildly restyled, largely in response to dealer complaints that the ’55s had looked a bit bland. Harley Earl obliged and gave the new models a healthy helping of tasteful chrome elements.

Being offered is this stunning; completely rotisserie restored 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible in pristine condition inside-and-out. This drop dead gorgeous ’56 Chevrolet is reported to be as nice as they come and all-correct throughout utilizing N.O.S. parts when possible. The Bel Air was taken down to the bare frame with every single nut and bolt taken apart and restored to like-new condition. It is the right car to own, as it is an original, rust-free Kansas car. It is equipped with the very rare and correct 265-cid, 240-hp V-8 engine with two four-barrel carburetors that “purrs like a kitten” that has been completely rebuilt. It is further stated that “absolutely everything lines up perfectly” and that this car “really is a rare find.” The Bel Air scored 992 out of 1,000 points at the Chevrolet Nationals last July in Cleveland, Ohio and also won Best Interior for restored cars.

This 1956 Bel Air has outstanding attention to detail throughout and utilizes all correct finishes and materials throughout. The great presentation begins with its gorgeous, Sierra Gold and Adobe Beige paint on a straight, well-prepped metal, continues with show-quality chrome trim all-around, and peaks with stock wheels with correct wire wheels hubcaps wearing whitewall rubber.

The all-new, correct and complementary two-tone interior features a show-stopping restored dash and gauge cluster. Everything works perfectly in the car. The soft-top is brand new; even the entire top frame was completely restored. It also has a brand new and correct top boot.

Among the equipment and options on this fine machine are a three-speed manual transmission, heavy-duty radiator, 30-amp generator, dual electric windshield wipers, deluxe heater, day/night mirror, dual outside mirrors, Wonder Bar radio, tissue dispenser, clock, courtesy lights, back-up lights, power top, tinted glass, rocker moldings, door handle guards, whitewall tires, wire wheel covers and exhaust extension tips.

Mechanically, this car is completely brand new as everything was rebuilt from front to back, and all completed to factory specifications. The underside of this car is completely detailed with the correct red oxide primer on the floorboards. It is reported that Chevrolet built a total of 41,268 Bel Air Convertibles; the number with this powerplant are greatly reduced, further adding to its reputation and the pure pleasure that comes from driving and showing such a car.