1953 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible

[Matt Harwood]

A very nice older restoration in the original Surf Green with a two-tone green interior and green top. I guess someone really liked green, but the overall combination works quite well. And heck, it's the '50s, so pastels and flashy color combinations are the thing to do, right?

I'd say this car was probably restored 10-15 years ago and used sparingly since. Everything is in first-rate condition with great paint, straight bodywork, and no signs of rust or damage lurking underneath. Excellent chrome and stainless, although the trunk emblem is showing some wear for some reason, although it just needs paint, not chrome. Lovely Bel Air side trim and script, along with fender skirts that show no issues. Newer green vinyl top with plastic rear window with power mechanism and matching green boot.

The two-tone interior is neatly done in correct patterns, and shows signs that the car has been driven and enjoyed, but nothing major. Carpets are excellent thanks to a set of repro floor mats, and the only real notable wear is on the back of the driver's seat where the spring is visible and has created a wear spot. Odd. All the gauges work, the AM radio pulls in stations loud and clear, and the steering wheel has been beautifully re-cast to match the interior. The trunk is finished with a rubber mat, complete jack assembly, and an ancient spare--probably not the original, but suitably old.

Original 235 cubic inch inline-six making 105 horsepower when linked to a 3-speed manual transmission as this one is. Rebuilt using some period speed equipment, most notably a set of Fenton cast iron exhaust headers linked to a dual exhaust system. It sounds snarky but not obnoxious and is quite peppy on the road. Neatly detailed engine bay shows only minor signs of use, although the raw Fentons look a little scabby. Correct generator, master cylinder, oil and air filters, and Blue Flame decals on the valve cover. No signs of rust or rot underneath, although it's not detailed for show any longer. Braking is firm, the ride is surprisingly agile, and it tracks straight. Four Goodyear wide whites of indeterminate age that show no cracking or checking and still look bright.

A neat convertible that's often overshadowed by its V8-powered siblings that came a few years later. Very easy to drive, capable of modern highway performance, and stylish in a subdued, quiet way. If you prefer to enjoy the '50s without looking like a rock star, perhaps this is a better choice. Asking $44,900 and we're always open to reasonable offers. Thanks!