For 1955, Chevrolet's full-size model received new styling that earned it the "Hot One" designation by enthusiasts. Unlike Ford and Plymouth, Chevrolet's styling was considered crisp and clean. Bel Airs 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 Chevrolets gained a V8 engine option. The new 265 cu in 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, and the "Power Pack" option featured a four-barrel carburetor and other upgrades yielding 180 bhp. Later in the year, a "Super Power Pack" option added high-compression and a further 15 bhp. "Idiot" lights replaced gauges for the generator and oil pressure. Motor Trend magazine gave the Bel Air top marks for handling. Front legroom was 43.1". Brakes were 11" drums.This '55 Bel Air custom is an incredibly straight and clean two door hardtop that has many subtle, custom features that really set the car off. The hood has had all of the emblems shaved and louvers punched into the top to give the car that classic, custom look. The door handles and trunk emblems have also been shaved to smooth out the look of the car. Both front and rear bumpers look great and have been rechromed as well as the new front grill. The paint on the car looks incredible and has been buffed out to a mirror like finish. The stainless trim in the rear has a custom faux type paint job in the center which looks great and continues throughout the car. Inside, the interior is finished in the correct beige and red color combination and looks great. The car has been converted to a 3 speed manual transmission on the floor which makes this car much more fun to drive. All of the upholstery inside the car is new and looks great. No signs of wear to any of the seats, carpet, door panels or headliner. The faux paint job continues inside wit the underside of the dash and steering wheel trim. There has been a set of under-dash gauges installed that include oil pressure and temperature. Under the louvered hood you'll find a 283 Cu In V8 that is connected to a 3 speed manual transmission. The engine compartment is very clean and nicely detailed. The wheels have been painted red and covered with classic steel hubcaps. The radial tires have good tread life left on them. In the trunk, you will find a full size bias ply spare with matching hubcap. The trunk has been painted and nicely carpeted. The underside is very clean and original as you can see in the photos. The VIN number is C55F222790 and the current mileage shows 27,800. The car is being sold on a clean title