What is the difference between 55 56 57 Chevy?
The 1955, 1956, and 1957 Chevrolet models, often referred to as the "Tri-Five Chevys," are iconic vehicles that hold a special place in automotive history. These cars are celebrated for their stylish designs, powerful engines, and cultural significance during the mid-20th century. While they share many similarities, each model year has distinct features that set it apart. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these classic Chevys.
1. Exterior Design Differences
One of the most noticeable distinctions between the 1955, 1956, and 1957 Chevy models lies in their exterior styling. Chevrolet made subtle yet impactful changes to the body design each year:
- 1955 Chevy: The 1955 model introduced the "shoebox" design, characterized by its clean, boxy lines and a more modern look compared to earlier Chevys. It featured a distinctive egg-crate grille and rounded taillights.
- 1956 Chevy: The 1956 model retained the basic shape of the 1955 but added a more pronounced grille with horizontal bars and a sleeker, more refined look. The taillights were redesigned to include a chrome accent and a hidden gas filler cap.
- 1957 Chevy: The 1957 model is arguably the most iconic of the three, with its bold front grille, prominent tailfins, and distinctive gold Chevrolet emblems on higher trims. The 1957 Chevy is often recognized as a symbol of 1950s Americana.
2. Engine and Performance Upgrades
Under the hood, Chevrolet made significant advancements in engine technology and performance across these three years:
- 1955 Chevy: This year marked the debut of Chevrolet's legendary small-block V8 engine, a 265-cubic-inch powerhouse that offered impressive performance for its time. It was a game-changer in the automotive industry.
- 1956 Chevy: The 1956 model saw improvements to the small-block V8, including higher horsepower options. Chevrolet also introduced a dual four-barrel carburetor setup for enhanced performance.
- 1957 Chevy: The 1957 model offered a 283-cubic-inch V8 engine with the option of fuel injection, a cutting-edge feature that provided exceptional power and efficiency. This made the 1957 Chevy a standout in terms of performance.
3. Interior Features and Comfort
Chevrolet also made strides in interior design and comfort during these years, catering to the growing demand for stylish and functional car interiors:
- 1955 Chevy: The interior featured a simple yet elegant design with bench seats and a straightforward dashboard layout. It was practical and comfortable for the era.
- 1956 Chevy: The 1956 model introduced more luxurious materials and optional features, such as padded dashboards and upgraded upholstery.
- 1957 Chevy: The 1957 model offered even more upscale options, including two-tone interior color schemes and improved instrumentation. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking both style and comfort.
4. Cultural Impact and Legacy
Each of these models played a significant role in shaping Chevrolet's reputation and the automotive industry as a whole:
- 1955 Chevy: The 1955 model is often credited with revitalizing Chevrolet's image, thanks to its modern design and powerful V8 engine.
- 1956 Chevy: The 1956 model built on the success of the 1955, offering refinements that appealed to a growing audience of car enthusiasts.
- 1957 Chevy: The 1957 model became an enduring symbol of 1950s culture and remains one of the most sought-after classic cars today.
Conclusion
The 1955, 1956, and 1957 Chevy models each have their own unique charm and appeal. From the groundbreaking introduction of the small-block V8 in 1955 to the iconic tailfins of the 1957 model, these cars represent a golden era in automotive history. Whether you’re a collector, a restorer, or simply an admirer of classic cars, the Tri-Five Chevys continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nickname for a 57 Chevy?
Some American car names might seem more familiar to you such as the Corvette, Mustang or Thunderbird, but on their looks nothing sums up the US in the 1950s than a tri-five Chevrolet; so called because their production was spread over the years of 1955 to 1957.
What was the difference between the 1955 and 1956 Chevy truck?
The 1956 models were unchanged, although the side nameplate moved up above the fender crease and a new emblem adorned the hood. Base prices rose from $1494 in 1955 to $1619, and the V-8 (called Trademaster) produced 155 horsepower while the six jumped to 140.
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.
What is the difference between the 56 and 57 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 does a 1957 Chevy cost today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $43,483 for a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air at auction over the last three years was $275,000.
What was so special about the 57 Chevy?
In fact, not only was the Ramjet Fuel Injection system a first for General Motors, but the Bel Air became the first production V-8 passenger car with the technology. This period was the start of an era when consumers would become enamored with technology.
What is a 1955 Chevy truck called?
The Chevrolet Task Force (or in some cases, Task-Force) is a light-duty (3100-short bed & 3200-long bed) and medium-duty (3600) truck series by Chevrolet introduced in 1955, its first major redesign since 1947.
How can you tell a 55 from a 56 Chevy?
There were no 'design differences' between '55, '56 and '57 Cheverolet cars, only styling differences. Underneath the 'skin', they were the same car. Bumper attachment points are slightly different and rear spring hangers are slightly different on the frame between the three years.
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.
What is the difference between 55-56 and 57 Chevy?
The '57 was more differentiated because of the larger rear fins. The only thing that really changed on the '56 was the front grill, which was widened to go away from the "sporty" look of the '55 front end.
