What was the difference between the 1955 and 1956 Chevy truck?
The Chevrolet Task Force trucks of the mid-1950s are iconic vehicles that marked a significant evolution in truck design and functionality. While the 1955 and 1956 Chevy trucks may look similar at first glance, there are several key differences that set these two models apart. In this article, we’ll explore the distinctions in design, features, and performance that make each model unique.
1. Exterior Design Changes
One of the most noticeable differences between the 1955 and 1956 Chevy trucks lies in their exterior design. Chevrolet made subtle yet impactful updates to the truck's appearance to keep it fresh and competitive.
- Grille Design: The 1955 Chevy truck featured a horizontal bar grille with a clean and simple design. In 1956, Chevrolet introduced a new grille with a more intricate pattern, giving the truck a bolder and more modern look.
- Emblem Placement: The 1956 model also saw a change in the placement and style of the Chevrolet emblem on the front grille, adding a touch of refinement.
- Parking Lights: The parking lights on the 1956 model were integrated into the grille, whereas the 1955 model had them positioned separately.
2. Interior Updates
Chevrolet also made improvements to the interior of the 1956 truck to enhance driver comfort and usability.
- Dashboard Design: The 1956 model featured a redesigned dashboard with updated gauges and controls, making it more user-friendly compared to the 1955 version.
- Seat Comfort: Minor adjustments were made to the seating to improve comfort for long drives, a feature that was particularly appreciated by truck owners who used their vehicles for work.
3. Mechanical and Performance Enhancements
Under the hood, Chevrolet made some mechanical updates to improve the performance and reliability of the 1956 truck.
- Engine Options: Both the 1955 and 1956 models offered the same base engine options, including the Thriftmaster inline-six and the optional V8. However, the 1956 model benefited from slight tuning improvements for better efficiency and power delivery.
- Electrical System: The 1956 truck came with a 12-volt electrical system, which was a significant upgrade from the 6-volt system used in the 1955 model. This change allowed for brighter headlights and more reliable starting.
4. Market Reception and Legacy
Both the 1955 and 1956 Chevy trucks were well-received by consumers and are now cherished by classic car enthusiasts. The 1955 model is often celebrated as the first in the Task Force series, introducing a new era of truck design. Meanwhile, the 1956 model refined and built upon this foundation, offering a more polished and modern experience.
Conclusion
While the 1955 and 1956 Chevy trucks share many similarities, the differences in design, interior features, and mechanical upgrades highlight Chevrolet's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a collector or simply an admirer of classic trucks, both models represent a golden age of American automotive design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size V8 engine came out originally in the 1955 Chevy?
265 cu in
The first generation of Chevrolet small-blocks began with the 1955 Chevrolet 265 cu in (4.3 L) V8 offered in the Corvette and Bel Air.
What is the best year for a classic Chevy truck?
The Best Classic Chevrolet Trucks
- Chevrolet AK Series (1941-1947)
- Chevrolet Advance Design (1947-1955)
- Chevrolet Task Force (1955-1959)
- Chevrolet C/K (1960-1998)
- Chevrolet Corvan,Greenbrier and Rampside (1961-1965)
- Chevrolet G Series vans.
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.
What was the 1956 Chevy truck called?
3100 series Stepside
The 1956 Chevrolet, 3100 series Stepside ½ Ton Pickup, was a carry over from the ever popular and new for 1955 model lineup light duty pickup, with only very minor changes probably not even noticeable to the average person.
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 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 most sought after 57 Chevy?
About The 1957 Chevy Bel Air Nomad
Less than one percent of 1957 Bel Air production (6,264 units) were in Nomad form. Today, '57 Bel Airs of any type are highly sought after, but it's the 1957 Bel Air Nomad that stands atop the mountain due to its rarity.
What is the difference between a 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.
How much did a 55 Chevy cost?
The Bel Air two-door Nomad station wagon was added to the line in February 1955, and the 210 sport coupe was added to the line in June 1955. When it came to pricing, the 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Beauville four-door wagon came in at $2,361, and the popular Bel Air sport coupe cost $2,166.
What is the difference between 55 56 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.
