How to tell the difference between 1955 and 1956 Chevy Bel Air?
The Chevrolet Bel Air was a popular and iconic American car model produced from 1950 to 1981. While the 1955 and 1956 Bel Air models share many similarities, there are several key differences that can help you distinguish between the two model years.
Exterior Styling Differences
One of the most noticeable differences between the 1955 and 1956 Bel Air models is the front grille design. The 1955 Bel Air features a horizontal grille with a prominent chrome surround, while the 1956 model has a more distinctive, vertical grille with a thinner chrome trim. Additionally, the 1956 Bel Air has a longer, more pronounced front bumper compared to the 1955 model.
Another key visual difference is the tailfin design. The 1955 Bel Air has relatively small, rounded tailfins, while the 1956 model features larger, more pronounced tailfins that are a defining characteristic of the car.
Interior and Mechanical Differences
Beyond the exterior styling, the 1955 and 1956 Bel Air models also differ in their interior features and mechanical components:
- The 1956 Bel Air offered more advanced engine options, including a 265 cubic inch V8 engine, while the 1955 model was limited to a 265 cubic inch straight-six engine.
- The 1956 Bel Air featured an updated dashboard design with a more modern, integrated look, while the 1955 model had a more traditional, separate dashboard layout.
- The 1956 Bel Air offered optional power steering and power brakes, which were not available on the 1955 model.
These key differences in exterior styling, engine options, and interior features can help you distinguish between the 1955 and 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air models.
How much is a 1955 Chevy Bel Air worth today?
The value of a 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $36,900 for a 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air in good condition with average spec.
What is the most sought after Chevy Bel Air?
1955 Chevy Bel-Air
Perhaps their most sought-after vehicle is the 1955 Chevy Bel-Air. The Bel-Air offers classic car enthusiasts a number of features worth writing home about.
What is the nickname for the 55 Chevy?
In automobile parlance, Tri-Five refers to the 1955, 1956 and 1957 Chevrolet automobiles, in particular, the 150, 210, Bel Air, and Nomad.
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 to tell the difference between a 55 and 56 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.
Where is the VIN on a 1955 Chevy truck?
There is supposed to be a tag on the drivers side "A" pillar with body/chassis and VIN info on it. Your VIN should be stamped on the frame near the steering box.
What was the best year for Bel Air?
The 1955 Bel Air was very well received. Motor Trend magazine gave the Bel Air top marks for handling. Popular Mechanics reported acceleration for a V8 Bel Air with Powerglide as being 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 12.9 seconds, plus a comfortable ride and good visibility.
Where is the hidden VIN number?
But the most common source is on the left hand corner of the instrument panel peek through the windshield from the outside.
Where is the VIN number on a 1956 Chevy Bel Air?
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): The VIN tag is located on a stainless steel plate that is spot welded to the driver's side front door jamb. Although, hard to see, Chevrolet also had the vehicle identification number stamped on the frame roughly below the drivers seat. The VIN may be ten or eleven characters long.
What colors did the 1955 Chevy Bel Air come in?
1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Automotive Factory Paint Colors
- 1955 Bel Air Seamist Green. #586.
- 1955 Bel Air Neptune Green Poly. #587.
- 1955 Bel Air Skyline Blue. #588.
- 1955 Bel Air Glacier Blue Poly. #589.
- 1955 Bel Air Copper Maroon Poly. #590.
- 1955 Bel Air Autumn Bronze Poly. #592.
- 1955 Bel Air India Ivory. #593.
- 1955 Bel Air Gypsy Red.
