4-Year Ground-Up Build 454ci Big Block V8 Muncie 4-speed Air Conditioning

If you're looking for a Tri-Five Chevrolet that blends meticulous craftsmanship with serious street presence, this 1955 Chevy 150 stands apart as a true one-of-one. After a four-year, nut-and-bolt restoration, this street rod reflects a level of detail and commitment to quality that goes far beyond the typical weekend build. Every fastener, washer, and bracket on this car appears either new or restored to as-new condition, with craftsmanship visible at every angle...from the smoothed engine bay to the fully custom interior.

The bodywork remains faithful to the original '55 Chevrolet lines, with the factory steel left intact and laser-straight. Finished in a carefully selected Red and Black two-tone scheme, the paintwork is deep and glossy, accented by excellent chrome and stainless trim throughout. The attention to detail is clear even in the smallest elements. Unlike some customs, this car retains its original exterior handles and trim, respecting the factory lines while still offering an updated look. Remote poppers are integrated for both the doors and the fuel filler, providing added convenience. Large-diameter Billet Specialties wheels wrapped in Nitto Extreme tires give the car a contemporary stance while keeping it grounded with real street capability.

Under the hood is a 454ci Chevrolet V8 fed by an Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor. The engine bay is clean, smoothed, and carefully detailed, with polished components including the intake manifold, valve covers, and a custom air cleaner. Headers feed into a stainless steel dual exhaust system utilizing Pypes mufflers, giving the big-block a deep, assertive rumble that commands attention without being overbearing. Cooling is managed by a custom-fit radiator and fan setup, with billet hood hinges and a finished firewall that elevate the bay to show-quality standards

A Muncie 4-speed manual transmission backs that 454 V8, sending power back to a Ford 9” rear with 3.73 gears and a limited-slip differential. It's mounted in a frame and undercarriage that shows just as well as the rest of the car. Power steering adds welcome usability, and Wilwood 4-wheel disc brakes provide strong, confident stopping power, with polished calipers visible behind the wheels.

Inside, the custom red leather interior delivers a dramatic and upscale experience. The bucket seats are well-bolstered and wrapped in supple leather, with black-accented door panels and trim to echo the exterior scheme. A Hurst shifter with white ball knob rises from a custom trans tunnel, pairing perfectly with the manual transmission's mechanical feel. A full set of Dolphin gauges are mounted cleanly within the factory dash bezel, providing reliable, easy-to-read data while preserving the car's original dashboard design. Additional highlights include billet pedals, a factory-style dash clock, and a Vintage Air climate control system for modern comfort. The interior is as cleanly executed as the drivetrain, with thoughtful hardware and trim placement that matches the overall caliber of the build.

The term "nut-and-bolt restoration" is sometimes thrown around too easily, but in the case of this '55 Chevy, it's entirely accurate. From the undercarriage to the engine bay to the interior trim, every visible component reflects care, precision, and an eye for long-term quality. The hardware is fresh, the finishes are clean, and nothing looks like it was overlooked. More than just a showpiece, this build is ready to be driven, enjoyed, and proudly displayed. It's a seamless fusion of Tri-Five nostalgia and modern hot rod execution…equal parts muscle, craftsmanship, and presence.

Key Highlights

* 4-year ground-up restoration
* 454ci V8
* Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor
* Muncie 4-speed manual transmission
* Ford 9" rear with 3.73 gears
* Limited-slip differential
* Power steering
* Willwood 4-wheel disc brakes
* Modern air-conditioning
* 18"/20" Billet Specialties wheels
* Custom red and black upholstery
* Polished and show-quality engine bay