Chevrolet created one of the all-time greats of American automotive history in 1955. Not only was the revamped Bel Air longer, lower, and wider than its predecessor, the styling was more restrained, remarkably free of chrome-laden excesses that were the norm on American cars. This was also the first year of the venerable small-block V-8, which quickly became the darling of hot-rodders and racers. Collectors have long held a special appreciation for the 1955 Bel Air, which has made them highly sought after.

Offered from the esteemed collection of Ron and Sarah Jury, this fantastically restored and authentically presented 1955 Bel Air Convertible is an Antique Automobile Club of America Grand National and Senior National First Prize winner. Completed at General Motor’s Tarrytown plant, it is finished in factory-correct Gypsy Red over a matching interior trimmed with beige and red vinyl. A power-operated Ivory vinyl convertible top protects occupants from the weather.

The interior is duly appointed with a push-button radio, dash clock, and vinyl-trimmed sun visors. The exterior features accessory bumper guards, dual side mirrors, chrome exhaust tips, rocker moldings and gravel shield, nail guards on the door handles, and a gas-filler guard. Under the hood is Chevrolet’s highly desirable 265-cubic-inch V-8 with a dual-barrel Carter carburetor and chrome-tipped dual exhaust system. A two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission is operated via the steering column.

After entering the Jurys’ collection in 2018, the Bel Air Convertible underwent a full, body-off restoration at the hands of restorers Jeff and Bill Steinmetz of Columbus, Ohio. Every detail was meticulously considered and preserved, including the rare Automatic Top Riser, which senses rainfall and automatically raises the convertible top. The car was subsequently exhibited at marquee AACA events from 2020 through 2024. In October 2021, the car was nominated for a National First Prize and was awarded a Grand National First Prize in April 2024. Few, if any, ’55 Bel Air Convertibles at auction within recent memory can claim such distinguished exhibition history.

The quintessential fifties American convertible, equipped with one of the era’s most venerated engines and wearing one of its most striking color combinations, this award-winning 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible will certainly augment any curated collection.