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How many nomads were built?

The number depends on which Nomad you mean; there isn’t a single universal total for all uses of the name.


Nomad is a name used across cars, space missions, and other projects. To answer precisely, we must identify the exact Nomad in question—whether it’s a particular automobile model, a space instrument or mission named NOMAD, or another use in popular culture. This article outlines the main interpretations and explains why a precise total requires narrowing the scope.


Common Nomads in automotive history


Automotive uses of the Nomad name are the most frequently discussed. Below is a guide to the principal automotive variants commonly cited by historians and collectors.



  • Chevrolet Nomad (two-door wagon) — the best-known Nissan-style wagon from Chevrolet’s mid-20th-century lineup, celebrated as a design icon and collector’s item. Production spanned several model years and iterations, and counts are typically published in year-by-year factory records and classic car registries.

  • Other automakers’ Nomad-branded concepts or limited runs — these are far less common and often documented only in niche histories or specialized archives.


Counts for automotive Nomads vary by year, market, and definition of “Nomad” (for example, a full wagon versus a trim or concept). To get a precise total, it helps to specify the exact model and year range you have in mind.


Chevrolet Nomad: the iconic example


The Chevrolet Nomad stands out as the most frequently cited Nomad in car culture. It emerged as a two-door wagon and has since become a symbol of 1950s design. Exact production totals are reported in factory records and automotive registries, often broken down by year and market. If you want the precise figure, share the specific year range and I’ll pull the verified numbers from reliable sources.


Conclusion: In automotive history, “Nomad” refers to several distinct variants; a precise count requires narrowing to a single model and time frame.


Nomads in space and technology


Beyond cars, NOMAD also names science instruments and missions—such as spectrometers aboard orbiters that study planetary atmospheres. These are not “built” in the same way as mass-market vehicles, but they have production or deployment counts tied to specific missions or instrument programs. If your question targets this usage, please specify the mission or instrument to obtain accurate unit counts.


Conclusion: For space-related NOMAD figures, identify the mission or instrument to receive exact production or deployment numbers.


How to get a precise figure


To deliver an exact, up-to-date number, please clarify which Nomad you’re asking about (for example, a Chevrolet Nomad from a certain year, another automotive Nomad, a NOMAD space instrument, or a fictional/brand use). With that detail, I’ll provide precise production or deployment figures sourced from current, reliable references.


Summary


The word “Nomad” covers multiple distinct entities across industries. There isn’t a single total for all Nomads; counts are model- and mission-specific. Clarifying which Nomad you mean will allow me to deliver exact, sourced numbers.

How much is a 1955 Chevy Nomad worth today?


A 1955 Chevy Nomad's price varies significantly, but on average, you can expect to pay between $55,000 and $150,000 for a good-to-excellent condition model. Prices can range from around $55,000 for average models to over $189,000 for high-end or restored versions, with a record sale reaching $275,000. Factors like condition, originality, and modifications greatly influence the final cost.
 
Price breakdown

  • Average to good condition:
    • Around $55,000 to $105,000. 
    • J.D. Power lists average retail values in the $148,500 range for a good example. 
  • High-end and restored models:
    • Prices can exceed $150,000, particularly for "restomods" with modern technology. 
    • Prices of $189,995 are seen for heavily modified versions. 
    • The highest recorded sale was $275,000 at an auction. 
  • Factors affecting price:
    • Condition: A car in excellent, original condition will be more expensive than one needing work.
    • Modifications: Customizations, such as engine upgrades or modern components, can increase value. 
    • Rarity: The 1955 Nomad is the rarest of the first-generation Nomads, making it a more valuable classic. 



What is the rarest Tri-Five Chevy?


Chevrolet Nomad
The Chevrolet Nomad is by far the rarest of Chevrolet's so-called “Tri-Five” Bel Air models, produced from 1955 through 1957. The nameplate, which would live into the early seventies, carries a level of cachet unique to the model.



How rare are Chevy nomads?


Chevy Nomads are rare, particularly the 1955-1957 models, with fewer than 23,000 produced over three years, compared to the half-million other Chevy wagons made during that time. The 1957 model is the rarest, with only 6,103 built, making it the least common of the trio and a highly sought-after classic car today.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the Chevy Nomad and why it's considered rare: 56sDD Speed ShopYouTube · Dec 21, 2021

  • Limited Production: The three-year run of the original Nomad from 1955 to 1957 produced a total of just 23,167 vehicles. 
  • Lower Sales in 1957: Sales dropped significantly over the three years, with 6,264 built in 1957, making the 1957 model the rarest. 
  • High Initial Price: A high price tag contributed to low sales, and the Nomad was one of the most expensive Chevys available, costing more than other models, including the Corvette in 1955. 
  • Increased Collectibility: Due to their rarity and iconic design, Nomads are now highly collectible and desirable classic cars, with prices for well-restored models often exceeding $100,000$ 100 comma 000$100,000. 



How many Chevy Nomads were built?


1957 Chevrolet Nomad
All 2-door style tri-five Nomads are very collectible today and are especially highly prized as factory originals. Just 6,103 Nomad models were built for 1957, with a total three year model build of 22,375.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.