1955 Chevrolet BelAir
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Changing the Game
1955 was landmark year for Chevrolet—they were finally able to provide a bold response to Ford in the performance battle for the first time in 35 years. Chevrolet’s 265 cubic inch Turbo-Fire V8 was a model of efficiency and, paired with ambitious styling, the Bel Air helped Chevrolet keep 44% of the low-price market segment locked down.
Simple in construction and economical to build, the 265 cubic inch Turbo-Fire put out 162 horsepower with a two-barrel carb, or 180 horsepower with an optional Plus-Power Package that boasted a four-barrel carb and a dual exhaust. The V8 hosted a new 12-volt electrical system that granted greater generator capacity, more efficient battery charging, and allowed the option for power windows, door locks, and windshield wipers, among other things, that the previous six-volt electrical system couldn’t bear.
A Stable Foundation
To enable the Turbo-Fire to deliver its power smoothly, the Bel Air now consisted of an improved “Glide-Ride” system with coil springs, ball-jointed front control arms, wider rear springs, diagonally mounted shocks, tubeless tires, an open drive shaft, a widened frame and lower center of gravity. Customers had an option between the 2-speed automatic Powerglide transmission and a three-speed manual transmission with optional Touch-Down overdrive and Power-Master rear axel. Due to Chevy’s optimum power-to-weight ratio the Bel Air was quicker and faster than the competition at about half the price.
Externally, the newly revamped Bel Air featured a Ferrari-inspired egg crate grille, accentuated headlights, a “Sweep-Sight” windshield, new doors handles, and flush quarter panels. Within the cab laid a color-coordinated interior that Chevrolet flaunted in all its glamour. Drivers were given new swing style pedals, a power seat, a new instrument panel that featured flashing lights as indicators, new all-weather air conditioning by Frigidaire, and new ball bearing infused steering that reduced friction allowing smoother, steadier handling.
