Introduced in November 1955, the 1956 Chevrolet became the nation’s most popular new car. The top-of-the-line Bel Air was available in seven different body styles. Equipped as standard with chrome wheels, an electric clock, and a lockable glove box with lighting, the Bel Air offered an array of power options topped by the 265-cubic-inch V-8. Counterintuitively, the high-horsepower eight-cylinder model was lighter than the six-cylinder cars and consequently yielded a superior power-to-weight ratio. It was little wonder that the 1956 V-8 Chevy became known as the “Hot One.”

This wonderful 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible joined the esteemed collection of Ron Jury in 2015, described at the time of sale to have received a complete frame-off restoration. It is finished in a lovely two-tone color scheme—India Ivory and Matador Red over a Red and Ivory vinyl—which corresponds with factory specifications stamped on the trim tag. Under the hood, a 265-cubic-inch V-8 fed by dual four-barrel carburetors sends power through a Powerglide automatic transmission. Desirable amenities include power windows, power brakes, a radio, and a power top.

Thanks to dedicated ownership over the past decade, this Bel Air Convertible has remained in spectacular condition. The chrome trim adorning almost every facet of the car’s exterior is lustrous, while the interior presents equally well with few signs of wear. Affirming the car’s high-quality workmanship, the Antique Automotive Club of America awarded it a Senior National First Prize in 2021 and declared it a Grand National winner in 2023.

Truly iconic, this “Tri-Five” convertible would make a fantastic addition to any collection of American postwar classics, poised for enjoyable cruising or display at local car shows and exhibitions of 1950s Americana.