1956 Chevrolet Bel Air

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Chevrolet’s 1955 models were wildly popular, and Chevy made sure the 1956 editions were even more so. Motor Life magazine said of the updated ’56 Chevys, “Forward cant of the front end has been emphasized by stretching the hood metal out another four inches. This, with angled headlight hoods and grille, give the illusion of motion.” But there is no need for illusion with this particular Bel Air Coupe. It started life as a genuine California-built Matador Red Bel Air with Red and Beige Pattern Cloth interior and has been beautifully restored to that condition. But the power has been brought up to modern standards with a Chevrolet Performance Ram Jet 350 crate engine displacing 350 cu-in with electronic fuel-injection, producing an advertised 351 horsepower. It’s backed by a three-speed Turbo-Hydramatic transmission and power front disc brakes. Vintage Air climate control keeps things cool, a chrome tilt steering column makes it comfortable, and an upgraded cassette radio with trunk-mounted CD changer provides the classic tunes. With authentic Fifties flair and modern muscle, this reimagined 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Coupe is the best of both times.

This lot is offered Without Reserve from The Roger Boman Collection, which comprises 27 vehicles ranging from European to American classics. Many examples within the collection feature Mr. Boman’s standard modification “formula,” including but not limited to the addition of disc brakes, air conditioning, modern fuel injection, and many other custom touches seen by countless enthusiasts around the Fresno, California area who shared the late owner’s passion for this unique assortment of automobiles.

Highlights 

• Offered from The Roger Boman Collection 

• Chevrolet Performance Ram Jet 350 cu-in V8 engine with 351 horsepower 

• Turbo-Hydramatic three-speed automatic transmission 

• Aluminum radiator 

• Power front disc brakes 

• American Racing 15 inch aluminum wheels 

• Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring tires 

• Auto Meter speedometer and gauges 

• Chrome tilt steering column 

• Vintage Air retrofit air conditioning 

• Upgraded cassette radio with trunk-mounted CD changer 

• Trunk-mounted battery housed in “Genuine Chevrolet” cooler 

• The trim tag of this 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air decodes as:  

  • Style Number 56-1037D – 1956 Bel Air 2-Door Hardtop 

  • Body Number O 2041 – Oakland, California, plant sequence number 

  • Trim Number 583 15 – Red with Beige Pattern Cloth 

  • Paint Number 715 – Dune Beige / Matador Red 

• This 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is offered currently showing 431 miles at the time of listing; however, the true mileage is unknown 

Features 

• Box-girder reinforced frame  

• Independent coil spring front suspension with stabilizer bar  

• Semi-elliptic rear springs  

• Full cap behind driver’s side taillight 

• Direct double-acting shock absorbers  

• Three-spoke steering wheel with horn ring 

• Deep-pile carpets 

• Lockable lighted glove box 

• Crank-operated windows  

• Dual electric windshield wipers  

Known Imperfections 

• This 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is presented in excellent modified condition with no known imperfections at the time of cataloging  

Ownership History

While a part of the Roger Boman Collection, this Bel Air was upgraded with several tasteful modifications with an emphasis on improved drivability and usability.  

Additional Notes

A Broad Arrow Group Consignment Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle.

Contact: Blake Wingrove Phone: 616.822.8589 email: bwingrove@hagerty.com