Proudly following in the footsteps of Chevrolet’s new-for-1955 second-generation Bel Air, the 1956 Chevrolets were mildly restyled, largely in response to dealer complaints that the 1955s had looked a bit bland. Harley Earl obliged, and gave the new models a healthy helping of chrome, a full-width front grille, and a revised taillight, brake light, and backup light cluster at the rear. Notably, the fuel filler was hidden behind the left rear light cluster, a classy feature first seen on Cadillacs of the era. While some esthetes thought it was overdone, these changes clearly resonated with the public and in 1956, Chevrolet’s market share improved from 16 to 28 percent.

This charming 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Coupe is finished in India Ivory over Onyx Black. It is believed to have benefitted from a repaint at some point in its life but never fully restored. Exterior features include dual sideview mirrors, tasteful chrome trim, and wide whitewall tires with factory wheel covers. This Bel Air is a California-built example, produced at Chevrolet’s Oakland plant, making it very desirable in the Tri-Five community. California-built cars were equipped with one-piece front and rear bumpers. This car also exhibits a seamless, one-piece frame. This Bel Air is powered by a 265-cubic-inch V-8 engine backed by an automatic transmission. The interior is trimmed in a two-tone Charcoal and Ivory design and is believed to be mostly original except for the carpets, which have been replaced. It features a clock and an upgraded modern radio.

Believed to have never been fully restored, this desirable California-built Bel Air, finished in its attractive color combination, is sure to impress. Mr. Andrews very much enjoyed having this car as part of his collection as he had an identical example when new.