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1955 Chevrolet Bel-Air

A timeless icon of American automotive design, the 1955 Chevy Bel Air exudes charm and sophistication. With its unmistakable mid-century styling, including sweeping chrome details and bold two-tone paint options, the Bel Air captures the spirit of the 1950s like few other cars can.  

Equipped with Chevrolet's then-new V8 engine, the 1955 Bel Air delivered a thrilling driving experience, cementing its place in history as a performance and style pioneer. This classic cruiser remains a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts who cherish its blend of elegance and power. It is available in various body styles, including the sleek two-door hardtop and practical four-door sedan.

History of 1955 Chevrolet Bel-Air

The 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air was a true automotive icon, redefining American design. Its sleek, flowing lines, the wraparound windshield, and distinctive tailfins made it instantly recognizable.

Under the hood, the Bel Air offered a range of powerful 6-cylinder and V8 engines, providing ample performance for the era. This combination of style and power made it a popular choice for families and enthusiasts. If you want to buy one, you can differentiate which models you are dealing with through its . A ‘V’ at the beginning of the VIN marks models with V8 engines.

The Bel Air's cultural impact extended beyond its initial production run. It became synonymous with the American Dream of the 1950s, appearing in countless movies and TV shows. Even today, the 1955 Bel Air remains a highly sought-after classic car, admired for its timeless design and historical significance.

1955 Chevrolet Bel-Air Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Chevrolet Bel-Air Worth?

Original MSRP :[object Object]

Outstanding

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$47,200

Clean

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$32,300

Average

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$22,600

Rough

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$15,200

1955 Chevrolet Bel-Air Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 4
Model Number: 2409
Length: 197 inches
Width: 73.8 inches
Height: 62.1 inches
Wheelbase: 115 inches
Weight: 3,380lbs
Type: Inline, Valve-in-head, Single downdraft, 3-speed manual, helical
Displacement: 235.5 cu. in.
Cylinders: 6
Bore And Stroke: 3 9/16 & 3 15/16 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 7.5 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 123@3800
Horsepower Rated: 30.4
Torque: 207@2000
Main Bearings: 4
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Engine Number Location: On boss on right side of engine to rear of distributor.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Rochester
Type:
2 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
9.5 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.94 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.68 to 1
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.94 to 1
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.70 to 1
Front: Independent coil springs
Rear: Longitudinal leaf spring
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 11 inches
Type: Regular
Tire Size: 6.7 x 15
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 16 Gallons
Oil: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:C55a001001 and up
Total Digits:10
Digits 1:Series
Digits 2-3:Model year
Digits 4:Assembly plant
Digits 5-10:Production number
Shoreline Beige, Shadow Gray Metallic, Glacier Blue Metallic, Seamist Green, Neptune Green Metallic, Regal Turquoise Metallic, Skyline Blue, Copper Maroon Metallic, Coral, Gypsy Red, Autumn Bronze Metallic, India Ivory, Harvest Gold, Cashmere Blue, Navajo Tan Metallic, Dusk Rose Metalli-Chrome
Beauville Station Wagon: Opt
Powerglide Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Power Seats: Opt
Radio: Opt
Power Antenna: Opt
Heater And Defroster: Opt

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Facts about the 1955 Chevrolet Bel-Air

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    Iconic Design: The 1955 Bel Air is renowned for its distinctive design, featuring sleek lines, a wraparound windshield, and iconic tailfins.
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    Powerful V8 Engine: It offered a powerful 265 cubic-inch V8 engine, a significant upgrade for Chevrolet.
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    Production Numbers: Over 1.5 million Chevrolets, including the Bel Air, were produced in 1955, making it a popular choice for American car buyers.
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    Cultural Impact: The Bel Air symbolized American automotive design and popular culture. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows, such as American Graffiti" (1973 and Happy Days (1974-1984).
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    Safety Innovations: For its time, the 1955 Bel Air introduced safety features like a stronger frame and a padded dashboard, making it a safer choice for drivers and passengers.

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Classic Build Sheets by VIN

Famous figures who owned the 1955 Chevrolet Bel-Air

The 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air, a true automotive icon, has been owned by several notable figures. Here are a few examples:

Cheech Marin

The comedian and actor famous for "Cheech and Chong" owned a 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible. The car reflects his love for classic cars and holds personal significance. 

Paul McCartney

The former Beatle drove a 1955 Chevy Bel Air during his fame, symbolizing the rock and roll era. 

Elvis Presley

The King of Rock and Roll, owned a 1955 Chevy Bel Air, which added to its legendary status and connected it to his iconic music career. 

Jay Leno

The comedian and car collector features a 1955 Chevy Bel Air in his collection, showcasing its design and history on his YouTube channel. 

Pat Stinson

A hot rod enthusiast, Stinson turned his 1955 Chevy Bel Air into a Gasser-style hot rod, highlighting the car's influence in the automotive community.

1955 Chevrolet Bel-Air Most Expensive Sold One

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-Door Post Custom
Sold for $170,000

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-Door Post Custom

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible Custom
Sold for $148,500

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible Custom

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 2 Door Hardtop Custom
Sold for $100,000

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 2 Door Hardtop Custom

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 2 Door Hardtop Custom
Sold for $84,000

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 2 Door Hardtop Custom

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible Custom
Sold for $77,500

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible Custom

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 2 Door Hardtop Original & Highly Original
Sold for $63,000

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air 2 Door Hardtop Original & Highly Original

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Frequently Asked Questions

The 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air came in 13 different colors, including Seamist Green, Neptune Green Poly, Skyline Blue, Glacier Blue Poly, Copper Maroon Poly, Autumn Bronze Poly, India Ivory, Gypsy Red, Regal Turquoise Poly, Coral, Harvest Gold, and Black.

The 1955 Chevrolet offered a range of engines to suit different preferences. For those seeking fuel efficiency and reliable performance, a 6-cylinder engine was available in a 123-horsepower version and a slightly more powerful 136-horsepower option. A V8 engine with 162 horsepower was offered for those desiring more power and excitement, providing ample performance for daily driving and spirited acceleration.

The 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air is a timeless classic that captivates car enthusiasts. Its iconic design, sleek lines, wraparound windshield, and distinctive tailfins have made it a symbol of the 1950s American automotive industry. The Bel Air's powerful V8 engine and comfortable interior enhance its enduring appeal. Whether cruising down a scenic highway or participating in a car show, the 1955 Bel Air uniquely blends style, performance, and nostalgia.