The terms classic and iconic tend to be overused, but the 1955 Chevrolet is a truly worthy of those terms. The introduction of the revolutionary small-block V-8 engine made 1955 a momentous year for Chevrolet. That engine quickly became the cornerstone of American high performance in all forms of racing and hot rods. The high performance aftermarket owes its existence to the 265-cubic-inch Chevy and its many derivatives.
It didn’t hurt that this spectacular new engine was housed in a beautiful body. The ’55 Chevy was a big departure from previous models. The shape was kind of boxy, but with nice details including the unique “egg crate” grille and distinctive side trim.
The unique egg crate grille was a huge departure from previous Chevys. It’s the easy way to spot a ’55.
Nearly 2 million ’55 Chevys were produced in three trim series: 150, 210, and Bel Air. Body styles included convertibles, sedans, hardtops, station wagons, and sedan deliveries. The most radical body style was the new Bel Air Nomad two-door station inspired by the wild Corvette Nomad Motorama show car.
Slab-sided sedan deliveries are part of the 150 trim series.
1955 Bel Air hardtops are popular with restorers and hot rodders alike. The classic trim makes for great two-tone paint schemes.
The almost instant cult status of the ’55 Chevy kept a large percentage extant. Hard use, rust, and accidents have reduced inventories, but a vibrant restoration and reproduction industry can supply virtually any ’55 Chevy part (including complete body shells).
Loaded convertibles are the darlings of the restoration crowd, but builders of modified ‘55s and racecars prefer two-door models. Two-door post sedans were built in the greatest numbers and are generally preferred hot rod platforms.
The 210 series two-door sedan is the most popular starting point for modified ’55 Chevys.
The Nomad is popular with both restorers and customizers. Restored bodies with beautiful trim are the basis of all enthusiasts ’55 Chevys. It’s very rare to see radical body mods.
1955 was the first year for the stunning Bel Air Nomad station wagon, which was inspired by the Corvette Motorama concept car.
In terms of stance, low is the way to go (like the Bel Air convertible at the top of this page). However, some fans prefer the nose-up straight axle gasser look. Aftermarket chassis with modern suspension and brake components are the best way to accommodate trendy large diameter wheels and tires. Stock chassis can be mini tubbed for added rear tire clearance. Disc brake conversions are a great idea.
The small-block Chevy V-8 was designed for the ’55 and all iterations of it continue to be the engine. Big-block Chevy V-8s are an easy fit. Overdrive automatics, 4-, 5-, and 6-speed manual transmissions are all good choices.
Spacious engine compartments are roomy enough for big-block Chevys. Note the smooth firewall.
1955 marked the introduction of the small-block V-8 engine, so ’55 Chevys have always been popular as race cars. Today they’re as apt to look like racers as be actively campaigned.
There are two primary schools of interior design: restored original and high tech modernism. Reproduction interior components are plentiful and the easy, affordable, always popular way to go. Custom seats with luxurious leathers and elaborate consoles and hand-formed dashboards are popular in high end ‘55s.
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