In the mid-1950's, NASCAR-style stock car racing was growing in popularity and Chevrolet was well positioned to succeed in the rough and tumble sport. With the introduction of its all-new 1955 model, Chevrolet had a lot going for it: totally new styling to go with its first modern-era V-8, the 265 CID small block V-8. This engine, which won its first Super Speedway race at Darlington, South Carolina in 1955, has gone on to win more NASCAR races than any other; the current iteration of the small block V-8 just powered Chevrolet Monte Carlos to the 2005 NASCAR Manufacturers Championship.
This re-creation of Herb Thomas' Darlington-winning car is faithful to its predecessor, based on a 150 series utility sedan (no back seat) and equipped with the 'PowerPak' small block V-8 with dual exhausts, a four barrel carburetor and 'three on the tree' manual transmission.Also photographed at :