The One-Fifty Special was mainly conceived as a fleet model, and therefore Chevrolet spent little marketing it to the average car buyer, though sales were not necessarily limited to fleets. It was most popular with police, state governments, small businesses, and economy-minded consumers. Ultimately, Chevrolet sold substantially fewer One-Fifties than Two-Tens or Bel Airs in every year of its life.

True to Chevrolet’s vision, the One-Fifty was no-frills transportation. It had limited options, stark trim, solid colors, plain heavy duty upholstery, and rubberized flooring. Small things like ashtrays, cigarette lighters, and even mirrors were extra cost options. Compared to the mid-level Two-Ten or premium Bel Air, the One-Fifty was stark and unadorned, perfect for the customizers of the day. That being said, the model became a little more stylish in the last years of production with previous years’ Bel Air stainless steel side trim and an improved interior, due to more standard equipment being included in all Chevrolets.

This One-Fifty Handyman trades the utilitarian for the California coast with an accessory surfboard and such accessories as a sun visor, whitewall tires with fender skirts, and impressive paintwork to replicate the Di-Noc faux wood treatment along the sides. The interior was likewise restored at some point and re-upholstered in two-tone beige and dark brown with matching carpeting. All in all, the car’s presentation is in keeping with selective restoration over the years and, while closer examination reveals minor cosmetic imperfections in a few areas, the overall impression is most certainly one of a nicely restored and especially rare Handyman station wagon – the ideal ride for taking the whole family, plus friends, to the beach!