How much did a 1956 Chevy cost?
The 1956 Chevrolet lineup is a classic representation of mid-century American automotive design and engineering. Known for their stylish looks, reliable performance, and affordability, these cars remain iconic to this day. But how much did they cost when they first hit the market? Let’s take a closer look at the pricing of these beloved vehicles.
The Price Range of a 1956 Chevy
In 1956, Chevrolet offered a variety of models, including the popular Bel Air, 210, and 150 series. The cost of a 1956 Chevy depended on the model and the features included. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate prices:
- Chevrolet 150 Series: The base model, known for its simplicity and affordability, started at around $1,800.
- Chevrolet 210 Series: A step up from the 150, offering more trim options and features, was priced at approximately $2,000 to $2,200.
- Chevrolet Bel Air: The top-of-the-line model, celebrated for its luxurious design and advanced features, ranged from $2,200 to $2,600 depending on the body style (e.g., sedan, coupe, or convertible).
Factors Influencing the Price
Several factors influenced the price of a 1956 Chevy:
- Body Style: Convertibles and station wagons were typically more expensive than sedans and coupes due to their design complexity and added features.
- Optional Features: Buyers could customize their vehicles with options like automatic transmissions, upgraded radios, and two-tone paint jobs, which increased the overall cost.
- Engine Choices: Chevrolet offered a range of engines, including the reliable inline-six and the more powerful V8, with the latter adding to the price.
Comparing 1956 Prices to Today
To put these prices into perspective, the average cost of a new car in 1956 was around $2,050. Adjusted for inflation, this would be equivalent to approximately $22,000 to $25,000 in today’s dollars. This makes the 1956 Chevy an affordable option for its time, especially considering its quality and performance.
Conclusion
The 1956 Chevrolet lineup offered a range of models to suit different budgets and preferences, with prices starting at around $1,800 and going up to $2,600 for the most luxurious options. These cars remain a testament to Chevrolet’s commitment to style, innovation, and value, making them a favorite among classic car enthusiasts even today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a 55 Chevrolet and a 56 Chevrolet?
1956 Chevy Tri Five cars were 2-3 inches longer and received a new full-width front bumper, new wheel openings, and a fuel cap hidden behind the driver side tail lamp.
How much did a Chevy truck cost in 1955?
Though the 1955 Cameo truck featured a premium price - $435 over the $1,400 base price of a Chevy truck - the design was a hit, with over 5,000 purchased the first year.
What was the car of the year in 1956?
1956 Ford Thunderbird Wins Car and Driver's Coveted Auto-Show Award. The classic two-seater—with manual gearbox—topped a huge field at the annual Rolling Sculpture event.
How much did a gallon of gas cost in 1956?
Gas Prices in the U.S. Throughout History
| Year | National Average Gas Price (Dollars/Gallon) Then | National Average Gas Price (Dollars/Gallon) In 2022 Dollars |
|---|---|---|
| 1955 | $0.29 | $3.14 |
| 1956 | $0.30 | $3.22 |
| 1957 | $0.31 | $3.21 |
| 1958 | $0.30 | $3.00 |
How much did a 1956 Chevy cost brand new?
The 1956 Chevrolet One-Fifty shown here is a textbook example of the perfect budget bomb. With a 3,117-pound curb weight and a $1,734 base price, the One-Fifty two-door utility sedan was the lightest and least-expensive model Chevrolet offered in 1956.
What is the difference between 1956 and 1957 Chevy?
The simple aspect of the grille that identifies the '56 are the huge, square-ish signal lamps encompassed within the grille, where the '57 has round signal lamps and huge round bumperettes. Both '55 and '56 have a smooth hood, but the '57 has a pair of 'Rockets' that make that hood specific to that year.
How much did a car cost in 1956?
The average price of a new car ranged from $1,300 to $2,300 depending on the car brand. The average price for a good used car was $500. Car financing was available.
What did a 1957 Chevy cost new?
This is an example of the One-Fifty four-door sedan, which at $2048 (about $21,985 in 2022 dollars) was the cheapest four-door new Chevrolet you could buy in 1957. The more upscale Two-Ten and Bel Air post sedans started at $2174 and $2290, respectively ($23,340 and $24,585 today).
What is the rarest 56 Chevy?
The most popular 1956 Chevy models were a reversal of 1955; GM built slightly more mid-range 210 four-door Sedans than top-of-the-line Bel Air four-door Sedans. Yet again, the rarest model was the two-door Nomad wagon.
How much did a 55 Chevy cost new?
The popular Bel Air convertible, which saw 41,292 units produced in 1955, were priced at $2,305. Many automotive historians have said that, if Chevrolet had it's greatest year, this was it.
