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.”

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 chrome.

This tidy 1956 Bel Air convertible has a V-8 fueled by a four-barrel carburetor that is backed by an automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power top, power windows and an aftermarket radio. This lovely red and white example features fender skirts and wide whitewall tires with chrome factory hubcaps. The interior is a matching red and white two-tone presentation complemented by a white vinyl convertible top, and the car also has a dash-mounted and optional Autronic Eye.