The Top 20 Cars For A Budget Restomod

August 26, 2017

Chevrolet Bel Air

If you’re interested in a truly classic bit of Americana, take a look at the Chevy Bel Air. The car’s styling screams “1950s” more than just about any other car besides maybe the Ford Thunderbird. The second generation, produced from 1954-1957 came equipped with either a 215ci straight-six or a range of V8s, topped by a 283 small block. Parts for these cars are exceedingly easy to come by, and won’t set you back too much. Neither will the car, with the average value of a ’55 Bel Air sedan sitting at $10000, though you can get one for a lot cheaper if you’re prepared to do a more extensive restoration.

Like the later Impala, they’re not particularly speedy by today’s standards, but installing a modern small-block V8 could correct that. If you’re just interested in cruising around, you’d just need to restore it. If you don’t upgrade, you’ll be treated to a classic Chevy roar with every press of the accelerator, and a very comfortable, head-turning ride. You may also want to put some disc brakes on there, as, of course, it’s drums all-round otherwise.

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