Northern California Car Since New! 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air A True California '56 Chevy Bel Air Coupe "Survivor" Original "Yellow & Black Plate" California Car - Current Local Owner for Over 25 Years!! Rare Factory Options Including: 265c.i.d with "Power Pack", Powerglide, P/S, P/B & Very Rare Factory Padded Dashboard - Excellent Documented Maintenance History!! Restored / Original Car - Finished in Striking Black / Black & White Interior with High Quality Paint & Laser Straight Body & Trim _____________________________________________________________ NOTE: Our listings sometimes get rather lengthy. However, we continually hear from out of state / out of country buyers (many of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read multiple pages of description, we ask that you review the "Specifications" on the car along with viewing the photos. Also, if you'd prefer, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we'll gladly discuss the Chevrolet and answer any questions over the telephone, including about our Buy it Now policies. Yes, the Bel Air can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction. Again, please give us a call for details. ALSO, PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON eBay WE RECEIVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE 100 PHOTOS OF ALL AREAS OF THE CAR BUT, WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THE PHOTOS, PLEASE CALL US AND WE WILL PROVIDE A LINK FOR THE PHOTOS (IT IS A VIOLATION OF eBay POLICY TO LIST THE URL ON THE eBay LISTING). All of our photos are taken in natural light and we do not "Photo-Shop" or touch-up the photos in any way. The cosmetic quality of this 1956 Chevrolet (both inside & out) is outstanding and the photos accurately reflect the condition of this spectacular & desirable mid 50's Classic. The "madness" of various auctions continues around the country. We often times see a wide range of collectible cars / special interest cars sell for inflated amounts in the "heat of the moment." This desirable '56 Chevrolet is offered at a realistic price considering the cars quality & history and, unlike bidding on cars in an auction environment, you will have the benefit of extensive information & history on the car prior to making a buying decision. Should you have an interest in a pre-purchase inspection, we encourage a thorough examination of the Chevy and would be glad to show the car by appointment. Equally as important is the fact that Classic Cars Ltd. has been in business for over 20 years and enjoys an excellent national / international relationship with 725~ positive eBay feedback items. We can provide references in addition to those left by customers at Yahoo Reviews, Classic Cars Ltd. Pleasanton, CA. (Please enter this information in Google to read our reviews) THANK YOU! CLASSIC CARS LTD. 925-846-1451 HISTORY - 1956 CHEVROLET BEL AIR COUPE In 1955, Chevrolet's full-size model received all new styling and power. It was called the "Hot One" in GM's advertising campaign. Chevrolet's styling was crisp, clean and incorporated a Ferrari-inspired grille. Bel Air's came with features found on cars in the lower models ranges plus interior carpet, chrome headliner bands on hardtops, chrome spears on front fenders, stainless steel window moldings, and full wheel covers. Models were further distinguished by the Bel Air name script in gold lettering later in the year. For 1955 Chevrolet's gained a V8 engine option. The new 265 cu in (4,340 cc) V8 featured a modern, overhead valve high compression, long stroke design that was so good that it remained in production in various forms, for many decades. The base V8 had a two-barrel carburetor and was rated at 162 hp (121 kW), and the "Power Pack" option featured a four-barrel carburetor and other upgrades yielding 180 bhp (130 kW). Motor Trend magazine gave the Bel Air top marks for handling. Popular Mechanics reported acceleration for a V8 Bel Air with Powerglide as being 0-60 mph in 12.9 seconds, plus a comfortable ride, and good visibility. On the other hand, the horn ring blocked some of the speedometer; regular gasoline made the engine knock, and the first V8 engine off the line burned too much oil. Front legroom was 43.1". Brakes were 11" drums. A new option for V8-equipped 1955 models was air conditioning, with outlets on each side of the dashboard; a heavy-duty generator was included on cars equipped with this option. The 1956 Bel Air received a face-lift with a more conventional full-width grille, pleasing those customers who didn't favor the Ferrari-inspired '55 front end. Distinctive two-tone body side treatments and graceful front and rear wheel openings completed the "speed-line" restyling. Single housings incorporated the taillight, stoplight, and backup light, and the left one held the gas filler - an idea popularized on Cadillac's. Among the seven Bel Air models was a new Sport Sedan, a pillar less four-door hardtop that looked handsome with all the windows rolled down and allowed easy entry into the back seat. The least costly Bel Air, the two-door sedan, carried a factory price tag of $2,025.00. Seat belts, shoulder harnesses, and a padded dashboard were available. Popular Mechanics reported that only 7.4% of owners in their survey ordered seat belts. MORE ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. We consider ourselves very fortunate. We live in one of the most beautiful parts of the United States with weather that allows us to enjoy our collector cars and other outdoor activities virtually year round. From a business perspective, we recently celebrated our 20th anniversary at Classic Cars Ltd. and have had the pleasure of meeting and dealing with collector car enthusiasts from all over the world. Our location in the "Tri-Valley" (a growing Wine Region with over 50 wineries) and active California collector car scene provides us with ongoing access to high quality rust free "Cars of interest" of all shapes and sizes. Frankly, we continue to be amazed at the lack of rust on cars that are 50+ years old. After all, we grew up in Chicago where the cars were showing rust after just a few years. Finally, we must admit, our collector car business has remained rather "Old School." We actually know our customers personally and do no advertising as a result of referrals from previous and local customers, friends and business associates. Also, we see every car that we represent and take it into our indoor storage. No long distance representation of unknown cars (and their owner's), brokering or long distance "Deal making." In the large majority of the cases the cars that we present have long-term ownership, history and documentation. We are selective as to the cars that we choose and our local and national feedback reflects our commitment to accurate, honest and complete vehicle descriptions. THIS PARTICULAR 1956 CHEVROLET BEL AIR COUPE This 1956 Chevy Bel Air epitomizes the type of collector car that we receive from our local customers who have owned their cars for years and are active in the Hot Rod / Street Rod community in our small town. However, this car enjoys a unique and very personal history to its long-time owner. When he purchased the '56 in the late 1980's Mr. S. owned a '63 Chevy that had been in the family (and California) since 1963. However, he always wanted a "Tri-Five" (or "Shoe Box") Chevy and when the right opportunity came along he just had to have this car. When he took possession of the Chevy Bel Air it was an extremely solid, "honest" example but it was time to bring the car back to life and treat it with new paint, interior, complete mechanical rebuild and everything it deserved. Bill paid particular attention to retaining absolutely as many of the original components as were possible (outside of normal, replaceable "wear" items) and succeeded in building a simply striking example of a "restored/original" California classic. So many parts on the car are original that it would be difficult to list everything but the following are noteworthy: - Original engine "Numbers Matching" 265c.i. 4BBL / "Power Pack" - Original rebuilt transmission - Original rear end - Original brake components / power brake unit - Original sheet metal - Original bumpers - Beautiful glass & trim - Padded Dash (re-done but factory equipped) - Headliner stays are original as are many other parts on the car - Restored fuel system / gas tank - Factory original / correct tail light assemblies - And too much more to list... Having had both the '63 and 'for many years (along with a number of other projects in between), Mr. S's life priorities have changed and he simply doesn't find the time to use both cars. He and his wife have strong emotional ties to the '63 since they took the car on a trip to Southern California and on to Las Vegas on their Honeymoon and repeated for the trip to celebrate a very special anniversary many years later. Needless to say, this car is very special to him. So, when he made the very difficult decision to sell one of the cars it was the '56 that he decided to pass on to another "Caregiver." In the most positive sense, this car represents what many would classify as a high end, true "Survivor" Chevrolet. Unlike the majority of the many 55+ year old collector cars with little or no history, this car has been a one owner car for the previous 25+ years!! It has been extremely well maintained including documented recent service to ensure that it is 100% for this offering. The car is a prime example of what we refer to as "original / restored" condition having undergone a cosmetic and mechanical restoration several years ago and being driven an estimated 5,000 miles (to car shows and on the weekends) in the past 5~ years. FEATURES OF THIS PARTICULAR 1956 CHEVROLET Specifically, the car is equipped as follows: - Front & rear yellow / black license plates - California car with long term ownership (current owner for 25+ years) - Considerable effort to retain original components minimizing the use of aftermarket and inexpensive reproduced components - Factory numbers matching 265c.i.d. V8 engine - Factory "Power Pack" (4 BBL / higher horsepower) - Factory Powerglide transmission - Beautifully added air conditioning (R134) recently charged and fully functional (refer to photographs) - blows ice cold - Factory Power Steering - Factory Power brakes with original booster - Rare factory padded / stitched dashboard - Correct original factory gauges - Factory AM radio (not functional at this time) - Old school chrome wheels / baby moons - Very period correct look - Matching Goodyear lettered tires - Very original, tidy engine bay - Trunk detailed & rust free We regularly see Chevrolet's that have been modified, abused and mistreated over the years but this car has been adult owned and cared for since it was acquired by the current owner in the late 1980's, and it shows. Not only is it cosmetically excellent but it represents a car that can be used and enjoyed for any number of reasons ranging from cruising to being entered in a wide range of car shows. One thing is for certain, the car will be accepted in virtually any venue. "THE NUMBERS" We feel that it is important to decode the significant production numbers, particularly on a restored /collectible car like this Chevrolet. Please let us know if we can clarify any of the decoding or provide additional information. The trim tag on the Chevrolet decodes as follows (Note: We have provided photos of the trim tag and the VIN tags on our listing but it was difficult to get a clear photograph): VIN #: V / C / 56 / L / 044660 (VC56L044660) - Located on driver's side door jamb and intact / unaltered Number / letter in VIN Significance V V8 Engine C Bel Air 56 Year (1956) L Assembly Plant (L = Los Angeles) 044660 Production Sequence # TRIM TAG (Located on right hand cowl panel) Style 56-103 1956 (56) / Bel Air Coupe (103) 044660 Production # The '56 Chevy received a high quality complete re-paint in Onyx Black with black & ivory interior when restored (Away from less than attractive yellow / green combination) ENGINE NUMBERS This car has the factory correct "Numbers Matching" 265c.i. 4BBL. Power Pack and original heads. The engine number reads F56FB and decodes as follows: F = Flint Michigan block production 56 = 1956 Model year FB = 265c.i. "Higher horsepower fitted with 4bbl "Power Pack" / Powerglide transmission CONDITION SUMMARY - 1956 CHEVROLET BEL AIR The cosmetic condition of this Bel Air is fantastic. The combination of a totally restored exterior and interior along with numbers matching completely rebuilt mechanical components makes this a difficult to find example of a usable 1956 Chevy Bel Air. When the car was restored it received a complete very high quality repaint in a factory '56 color of Onyx black that has held up very well. The car spent months in the body shop to ensure that the work was of the highest quality and the result is one of the nicest finishes that we have seen on a Tri-Five Chevrolet. The paint is laid very "flat" with no signs of orange peel, checking or defects that detract from the overall appearance and beauty of the car. It was completed by a well know local craftsman that specializes in unique, specialty vehicles, not a mass production "Quickie" paint & body facility. The body is extremely straight and reflects the hours of preparation to get the desired result of an exceptional '56 Chevrolet. There is no over spray on any of the trim as a result of the car being totally disassembled in preparation for the re-paint. Of course, some of the rubber trim, interior pieces and other "soft items" were sourced from quality manufactures. It is very important to note that, unlike many "restorations" this Chevrolet was done professionally and it shows. True Chevrolet enthusiasts / aficionados will appreciate the difference and the value of a correct and proper restoration, especially on a rare original like this California Chevrolet Bel Air. Mechanically, the car is very strong and drives exceptionally well. The undercarriage is dry with no major leaks from the engine, rear end or transmission. The higher performance "Power Pack" engine (Factory 4BBL) does not disappoint delivering the kind of performance and torque that is appreciated in the mid 50's Chevy's. The owner reports that the entire engine and driveline has been rebuilt to ensure reliability and solid performance. All areas of the car (engine bay, trunk and interior) have been kept detailed and in clean condition at all times. The Chevrolet has not been stored for extended periods of time and used occasionally but regularly. EXTERIOR PAINT / BODY / TOP SUMMARY - Complete exterior cosmetic restoration completed to a high standard with very high quality paint - All trim removed, replated or replaced with NOS components. Very few non original parts used. - Beautiful attention to detail - Very clean "California quality" chassis and other suspension components with no damage or signs of previous or current accident damage - NO undercarriage frame rust or rot - Doors close solidly and fit very well - Driver's side chrome mirror - Beautiful high quality re-chromed bumpers - Period style chrome wheels and hubcaps - Excellent glass & trim - All windows roll up and down freely - Functional locks including trunk INTERIOR - Beautiful Bel Air upholstery in black & ivory - Factory correct uncut dashboard - No alterations or changes from stock configuration (With the exception of an aftermarket radio - Excellent custom, high quality carpet - Rare factory padded dash with no dash cracks or damage - All glass is excellent ENGINE / DRIVE-LINE / WHEELS & TIRES The car passed the California required safety inspection and has completely functional lighting systems. It is smog exempt as a 1956 model year (any vehicle older than 1975 does not require a smog inspection in California). However, to ensure that the Chevrolet is maintained at all times, the opportunity was taken to complete the following service work (within the previous 100 miles): - Tune up - new plugs and overall service / check fluids, etc. - Adjust carburetor & choke - Adjust timing, dwell, etc. - New battery - Complete transmission service & fluid change - Repair horn ring (new ring kit) - Rebuild speedometer In addition to recent servicing the file of receipts and history contains the following documentation: - Photos of the restoration - Copies of regular service receipts / invoices (oil services, regular maintenance) LICENSE / REGISTRATION / INSPECTION - Currently licensed & registered in California (Clear title) - Passed recent California safety inspection (proper lights, turn signals, etc.) - No smog required in California (vehicles 1975 and older are exempt) MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION - The Chevy has fully functional windshield wipers and stainless steel wipers / arms (correct). - The car also comes with an indoor car cover. - We have a number of additional, detailed photographs but are only able to show 100~ on our listings. Please let us know if we can provide additional detailed photos of any part of the Chevrolet. - We have been shipping vehicles for years and have established excellent contacts that are not only high quality but very price competitive. We do not use brokers, terminal shipping or other discount methods. Call us or email for a quote directly to your home or office. We are often able to obtain quality enclosed transportation (the kind of travel this car deserves) for the cost of open shipping. - As with virtually all collector/specialty vehicles, we find that parts and resources are readily available for this (and most every vehicle), thanks in large part to the Internet! - In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser's responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: If the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law. - While we encourage telephone calls to discuss this vehicle in greater detail and will be glad to discuss the pricing over the telephone. Should you prefer that we call you to answer any questions about the vehicle; shipping alternatives, etc. please e-mail us with your telephone number and will gladly get back in touch with you. Or, call us anytime at 925-989-9547 to discuss a Buy it Now option. - As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd. - Please keep in mind that minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present on every vehicle (regardless of cost) including small chips, nicks, scratches, etc. that can be seen on even the best restoration, or even a relatively new, used "pre-owned" vehicle. Also, ownership of a collectible / specialty vehicle is more enjoyable if the owner is familiar with the "realities" of these unique cars. Unlike more modern day vehicles, these cars require regular, ongoing care/maintenance and some mechanical knowledge, patience, and understanding can make the experience considerably more pleasant. That said, collector / "specialty" car owners will tell you (emphatically) that they love their cars and wouldn't trade them for anything!! - The information contained in this description is believed to be accurate but, in some instances, has been provided by the car's owner / owners or outside sources. As a result, we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of the information. We encourage verification of "numbers" and significant data prior to the purchase of any collector vehicle that you are considering. PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background of any collector car being sold over the Internet. We believe that it is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to: - How long have they been in business? - How much experience do they have with collector cars? - How many positive collector car vehicle sales have completed (positive eBay feedback)? - How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle? - Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "Glamour Shots" taken from a distance? - Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction? - What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license? - Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances? - Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation? - Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales? ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. - Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over 20 years. We operate a small "brick & mortar", indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles. - The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair. - Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing over 800+ positive transactions to buyers all over the United States / World. - We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World. - Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions - We enjoy excellent relationships with a number of transport companies and, as a result, can often times obtain preferred pricing for vehicle shipping. Please give us a call and we will be glad to refer you to suitable transport companies. Needless to say, we would recommend a quality, enclosed transporter that is experience with moving high quality, collectible cars. - We frequently sell vehicles to out of State / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area. Thank you, Classic Cars Ltd. 925-846-1451 Specifications: Body Type / Style: Coupe Exterior Color: Tuxedo Black Interior Color: Black & White Engine: V8 Transmission:    Powerglide Mileage: 77,608 Drive: Rear Doors: 2 Equipment: 100% Street Lgal Air Conditioning California Car! California Lic & Reg Chrome Wheels Dual Exhaust Exceptional Paint Quality Exempt From Smog in California Factory 4 BBL Factory AM Radio Factory Gauges Functional Horn Heater / Defroster Incredible "Survivor" Interior Light Local California "Survivor"    Local California "Survivor" Matching Numbers Engine Matching Numbers Transmission No Rust CA. Body Original Sheet Metal Period "Baby Moons" Power Brakes Power Steering Rebuilt Engine Rebuilt Transmission Repair History Repair Receipts Restored Jack Runs / Drives Very Well Seat Belts (Frt. & Rear) Spare Tire & Jack 2 Owner's Most Recent Owner for 25+ Years! Beautifully Restored to Stock Condition Desirable Bel Air 2 Door Numbers Matching 265 c.i. Original (Rebuilt) Powerglide Original Rear End Laser Straight Body Striking High Quality Black Paint All Trim Re-Done to a High Standard Excellent Panel Fit Beautiful Chrome & Trim Original Body Panels / Sheet Metal Very Well Maintained Perfect Glass Excellent Lenses Right Rear Quarter - Close Left Rear Quarter - Close Totally Rust Free CA Car High Quality Mirror Finish Left Side Right Side No Damage Or Dents / Dings Top of the Line Details, Details.. Beautiful Windshield Very Nice Stainless (All restored) Correct Yellow & Black Plates Bumperettes Incredible!! Period Style "Baby Moons" Goodyear Tires Matching Set Original Wheels NOT Available WOW!! Photo is Worth 100 Words Totally Stock Interior (Except Radio) Rare Factory Padded Dash Showing Only 77,xxx Miles Original Bel Air Excellent Dash / Gauges / Trim Aftermarket A/C & Heat Perfect Headliner Lovely Interior Back Seat is Like New Driver's Side Rear Panel Passenger Side Rear Panel Perfect Package Shelf Driver's Side Door Panel Passenger Side Door Panel Under Trunk Lid Immaculate Trunk WIth Spare & Restored Jack NO Rust Beautifully Done Underside of Hood 265 c.i. MATCHING NUMBERS Factory Power-pack / 4 bbl Factory Matching Heads Factory Dual Exhaust Car Factory Powerpack Heads, 4 bbl Dual Exh Inner Fender Original P/S & Brake Units! Original Generator Set-Up Rebuilt Booster No Rust in Fenders / Rockers Or Anywhere Else! No Signs of Repairs Straight & Rust Free Underside Front Totally Rust Free / Straight Frame NO Signs of Damage to Frame Front Inner Fender Wells Front Fender Well #2 Terms & Conditions Buyers outside of California will be responsible for a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd. The vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere. We reserve the right to end the auction at anytime. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846 1451. Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction. Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California. We mail, via Priority Mail, transferable documents within 48 hours of the transfer of funds to out of State buyers. While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location. We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to delete your bid. Thank You & Happy Bidding Classic Cars Ltd.