1954 Chevrolet Bel Air - today's tempter

By: Unique Cars magazine

Date: 05.10.2021

1954 Chevrolet Bel Air

1954 Chevrolet Bel Air

1954 Chevrolet Bel Air

1954 Chevrolet Bel Air

Post-war coupe set a trend

Chevrolet's first Bel Air series marked the start of a trend towars a range of 'feel good' post-WWII cars that spoiled the owner a little without costing a fortune.

Though we've come to expect the majority of American cars to come with V8 powerplants, this first generation - 1950-54 - in fact ran a series of straight sixes which udnerwent some fairly rapid development. Perhaps most important was the move away from splash lubrication to full pressure.

The appearance of this car tallies with the 1954 date, which means it's late in the series and has benefited from a number of upgrades. That includes the full-power 235ci (3.9lt) Blue Flame six with hydraulic lifters and claiming 115hp (86kW). Though autos were available, this example is running a three-on-the-tree manual.

Located in Sydney, NSW, it appears to be in original trim and is on the market for $65,000.

See our second-gen 1957 Bel Air feature

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