1956 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-Door Hardtop

This 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air two-door hardtop has driven 400 miles since undergoing a body-off restoration, which consisted of a refurbished suspension and the addition of a custom exhaust system, a four-core radiator, 4-wheel disc brakes, and 15” polished aluminum wheels. The replacement 350ci V8 is backed by a TH350 3-speed automatic transmission and it is dressed with chrome-finished accents. Finished in two-tone Tornado Red and Pearl White over a reupholstered gray vinyl interior with red piping, this Bel Air is now offered with receipts and a clear Washington title in the seller’s name.

Chevrolet’s lineup of tri-five vehicles launched in 1955, adopting flatter panels and a new chassis. For 1956, subtle changes were made to the brightwork, and a curve was set into the side moldings at the rear quarter panels. This Bel Air was subject to a body-off restoration in 2004 by Tim's Hot Rod in Spokane, Washington, which included the application of a fresh two-tone coat of Tornado Red and Pearl White paint and refurbishment or replacement of the chrome, stainless-steel trim, glass, and rubber. The exterior features Bel Air logos on the rear quarters and a 2 ¼” dual exhaust system, with oval polished tips exiting.

15" American Racing polished aluminum wheels are wrapped in newer BFGoodrich tires. The braking system was upgraded to four-wheel power-assisted discs with stainless-steel brake lines and an 8” chrome-finished dual diaphragm brake booster. The suspension and power steering were also overhauled as part of the restoration.

The interior has been reupholstered in gray vinyl with red piping, and the door panels and carpeting are finished in a similar tone. The dash wears body-matching Tornado Red with bright accents and a Bel Air logo at the passenger side. Amenities include power windows, electric windshield wipers, a Vintage Air A/C system with louvers, vents, and inside ductwork, an Ididit tilt-adjustable steering column, and a Lecarra MK9 steering wheel. The audio system is from Custom Autosound and features three-way 6x9 speakers as well as a CD changer. The trunk is fully finished and houses a spare tire.

Instrumentation consists of a 110-mph speedometer and gauges for fuel level and coolant temperature. The five-digit mechanical odometer shows approximately 700 miles, though true chassis mileage is unknown.

The replacement 350ci V8 features a Highway 22 wiring kit and a four-core radiator and is paired with a TH350 3-speed automatic transmission. Upgrades include a Chevrolet Corvette master cylinder and a replacement fuel tank and sending unit.

The sale includes a binder of restoration receipts.