In terms of well-known American classics, the Tri-Five shoebox Chevys are pretty much unshakable from their place in automotive history. The cars were iconic when new, and received a redesign every year with Chevy designers tweaking the cars to appease the desires of the car-loving populous. Never falling out popularity, these cars made excellent rods and became the platform of choice for many builders.
Built by a mechanical engineer with some seriously good Southern California craftsman knocking the socks off the paint and interior, this 1956 Chevy was not only built with the best parts, but the quality and craftsmanship are second to none. Starting with an original California car that was assembled and sold new in Los Angeles, the car received a bare metal re-finish that was finessed to produce an incredibly straight car with body lines and gaps that are really sweet. The many layered DuPont paint was then wet-sanded and buffed to bring out a very flat, mirror shine with great depth. All of the chrome, trim and glass was replaced/replated during the restoration showing great attention to detail.
Just like the body, the chassis was completely refinished and reassembled with front and rear power disc brakes, KYB shocks, polygraphite bushings and a Mullins 605 gear box. To say that the car drives well would be an understatement. It glides down the road, has buttery steering and excellent brakes. You could show it, or drive it cross country. Just staring and smiling at the car would also be acceptable.
The powertrain consists of a modified LT1, 700 R4 transmission and a 12 bolt posi traction rear end with 3:30 gears. The combination is powerful, extremely smooth and really propels this classy Chevy down the road. The exhaust note sounds just right with the Borla exhaust system out back. It’s just enough to let you hear that motor spin up, but you won’t be waking your neighbors or drowning out conversation on a road trip.
The interior of this car really shines and although you can’t see it in the photos, all of that red interior paint has been wet sanded and buffed out just like on the exterior. The interior is absolutely timeless and features gorgeous stock type carpeting. The seats and door panels are finished in none other than Connolly leather. Connolly has been the best leather money can buy and is used by high end car manufacturers such as Rolls-Royce and Ferrari. It’s luxurious. Enough said. The dash remains basically stock with the exception of some extra cool Moon gauges, a modern radio with an old school look, and Air Conditioning controls.
The quality of this car is superb so don’t miss out!
