In the early 1950's, every major auto manufacturer was striving to best the competition by introducing a state-of-the-art automobile with all-new styling and a more advanced engine. Meanwhile, Chevrolet seemed to be stuck in a rut; every Chevy from 1929 to 1954 had the same six-cylinder engine under the hood. Chevrolet was losing its edge as a sporty yet affordable car manufacturer, but the tides would change with the 1955 Chevrolet.
The 1955 Chevrolet represented a shift in style and function. The new 265 cubic inch V-8 engine was probably the biggest cause of the popularity of the 1955 Chevrolet, and the option of the "Turbo-Fire" V-8 offered a little extra for auto enthusiasts, with between 162 and 180 horsepower. This small-block V-8 was the first V-8 engine in a Chevrolet since 1918.
The '55 Chevy was the first Chevrolet to feature "Motoramic" styling. Underneath this now-classic styling sat a new frame, 3 new engine types, new brakes, and a new suspension. Compared to earlier Chevrolets, the 1955 Chevy was both lighter and stiffer, with "glide ride" front suspension offering a smooth ride. As General Motors' biggest seller, the Chevrolet name was carefully styled ahead of the release of the all-new 1955 design. The eye-catching design was boxy, yet sleeker and more futuristic than the 1953 and 1954 models. The new model was designed to appear longer, lower, and wider than the older model. Nicknamed the "shoebox" design, the 1955 model was the first Chevy to have streamlined rear fenders. Interior innovations included plush upholstery and a fan-shaped instrument cluster, with an optional radio. With a stylish wrap-around windshield, tail fins, and chrome detailing, the 1955 Chevrolet soon became popular with auto enthusiasts as well as everyday drivers.
The 1955 model year included three Chevrolet models: The Bel Air, the 150, and the 210. Available versions included 2-door and 4-door sedans, station wagons, and the sought-after convertible. 14 different solid color options were available for the 1955 Chevy, although most 1955 Chevrolets were sold with one of 23 popular two-tone color combinations.
The best-selling car in 1955, over 1,700,000 Chevrolets were produced that year. As a testament to its popularity, a '55 Chevy was chosen as the official Pace Car of the Indianapolis 500 on May 30, 1955. While in 1954 Ford had dominated the market by selling 47 percent of all low-priced automobiles, the 1955 Chevy was a smashing success, exceeding Chevrolet's sales record for any previous year. In fact, the 50 millionth GM automobile produced in the United States was a 1955 Chevy Bel Air.
The popularity of the 1955 Chevrolet is thanks to its completely transformed look. With better performance and a shiny new look, the '55 Chevy soon won over the hearts of America. The design introduced in the 1955 Chevrolet existed with minor alterations until the 1958 model year. The 1955 Chevy remains a popular choice more than fifty years after its introduction for car enthusiasts who lovingly restore the cars to their original condition or add modifications according to their personal tastes.
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