Frame Off Restored Bel Air Restomod 350ci V8 4spd Auto A/C Upgraded Suspension

Like fashion, the collector car market is cyclical. But, like fashion staples, there are some cars that never go out of style. For instance, you just can't go wrong with a comfortable pair of jeans. And likewise, you'll always be admired when you pull up in a slick tri-five Chevy. Back in 1955, at a division that was struggling to make its car relevant to American youth, no one would have guessed that 63 years later we'd be regarding clean Bel Air resto-mods in the same way we admire timeless stalwarts like V8 Mercs and '32 Fords. But alas, great design endures. And when great design is mixed with proven technology, it's a sure-fire bet for success! Mixing timeless aesthetics with a spry Chevrolet small block and a massaged 700R4 4-speed, this spectacular Bel Air was built to provide a lifetime of memories. And if you've been searching for a striking Chevy showpiece, but want something that's a heck of a lot more fun than a stuffy restored-to-original car, it's a do-anything cruiser that simply can't be beat!

CLASSIC GOOD LOOKS

The subject of detailed, high quality restoration, this awesome double nickel is definitely built for keeps! From casual glances to long looks, the car exudes a sense of quality that comes from countless hours of work and serious credit card bills. With straight panels and impressive panel fitment, its body uses a classic combination Gypsy Red and Shoreline Beige 2-stage to set the standard for what to expect from the rest of the build. And overall, this slick resto-mod is right at home turning heads on the road OR logging points at a show. Details begin with a polished bumper, which props a polished guard in front of a polished grille, clear parking lamps and bright halogen headlights. At the top of that grille, a Chevrolet-branded hood centers a correct Jetbird in front of tinted glass, polished wipers and polished frames. At the base of that glass, a silky profile centers stainless speed spears and classy Bel Air emblems between polished mirrors, polished rocker guards, guarded door handles and a guarded fuel filler. And at the back of that profile, a second guarded bumper splits the difference between Pilot exhaust tips, a requisite trunk crest and LED taillights that shade small Chevrolet emblems.

CHEVROLET POWER

Pop the hood and you'll find 350 cubic inches of reliable Chevrolet small block. Revs are created when a polished air cleaner floats wind in to an Edelbrock Performer EPS intake, by way of a coated Edelbrock carburetor. At the perimeter of that intake, polished Chevrolet valve covers hang a polished breather over Comp roller lifters and a Comp roller cam. That cam breathes through coated shorty headers. Behind those tubes, Delco-Remy HEI fires loomed Taylor plug wires. At the front of those looms, chrome pulleys spin a polished water pump behind a polished AC compressor and a polished alternator. At the front of those ancillaries, a beefy Griffin radiator plays well with two electric puller fans. And, despite being a thoroughly massaged piece, the Chevy Orange mill looks right at home in the car's spotless, Satin Black engine compartment.

A CLASSIC YOU CAN CRUISE

Under the car, a straight chassis reflects clean, Satin Black paint. The trusty 350 powers a smooth 700R4 4-speed that's built with a swift Shift Kit. That gearbox leads a proven 12-bolt axle, which spins a posi-traction differential around stout, 3.30 gears. That sorted drivetrain rides an upgraded suspension, which follows tubular control arms with Monroe Monro-Matic shocks. Turns come courtesy of a power-assisted CPP gearbox. Stops are provided by two power-assisted discs and two power-assisted drums. Aluminumized exhaust cages an H-shaped crossover in front of throaty turbo mufflers. And power meets the pavement through traditional Chevrolet Rally Wheels, which spin 215/65R15 BF Goodrich Touring T/As around polished spinners.

CRUISE IN COMFORT

Not to be outdone by the car's head-turning paint, this Bel Air's convertible-spec interior is a soothing study in shades of contrast. At the front of the cockpit, a dual-cowl dash stretches bowtie-stamped stainless around modern audio and factory telemetry. Below those vitals, Vintage Air sliders migrate toward Auto Meter accessory gauges and an XM satellite receiver. All passengers enjoy plush bench seating while front passengers enjoy 3-point safety harnesses. And the driver cuts the boulevard through an undersized steering wheel and a modern, tilting column.

The Bel Air is an American icon, and this crisp Chevy puts a fresh spin on familiar lust. What's better: the car's workmanship is excellent, providing an active enthusiast with a cool cruiser for much cheaper than any ground-up build. If you're looking for a fully-sorted classic that's comfortable, fulfilling and aesthetically striking, this cool tri-five is your hot ticket!

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HIGHLIGHTS

* The beneficiary of a detailed, ground-up restoration
* 350 cubic inch Chevrolet V8
* 700R4 4-speed automatic transmission / Shift Kit
* 12-bolt posi / 3.30 gears
* Modern air conditioning
* Power steering
* Power front disc and rear drum brakes
* Upgraded suspension
* Convertible-spec interior / Modern audio
* Chevrolet Rally Wheels
* Gypsy Red and Shoreline Beige paint