1956 Chevrolet Bel Air HardTop

Just like the advertising jingle suggested, 'See the USA in your Chevrolet.' Many happy buyers took Chevrolet up on this offer, and enjoyed seeing the American countryside through the wraparound windshield of a two-tone Chevy Bel Air convertible. They became one of the most recognizable 1950s American automobiles. The second generation Bel Air received a minor facelift in 1956, a so-called 'Speedline' restyling that featured distinctive two-tone bodyside treatments and elegant wheel openings in both the front and rear.

The two-door hardtop remained of the more popular body styles on the 1956 Bel Air, with 128,382 finding owners at a cost of $2,275. The new trim followed a color spear, which carried forward to the headlight and mimicked the roof and trunk color. In the front, the grille was widened to include the sidelights. In the back, the taillights were enlarged, with the left one concealing the gas filler. Bel Air script was attached to the rear fenders.

This example is finished in Matador Red and Dune Beige and was built in GM's Kansas City factory. It was given a 265 cubic-inch, dual-barrel carburetor, overhead valve V8 engine rated at 170 horsepower. It came equipped with a two-speed Powerglide automatic. This was later replaced with a three-on-the-tree manual transmission. Optional details included rear wheel spats and chrome tips for the dual exhaust pipes. The color scheme continues into the interior, with red vinyl interlocking with a beige cloth. There is an AM radio, a tissue box, and a traffic light viewer in front of the driver.

This example was previously restored prior to joining the Oldenburg Family Collection in early 2011. The previous eight years were spent in the late David Walters collection.

In 2013, the car was offered for sale at the Bonhams Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for $31,050, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2013