The 1954 Chevrolet 3100 5-Window represents the final and most refined year of the legendary Advance Design series. Collectors highly prize the five-window cab configuration for its superior visibility and iconic wraparound rear glass. This specific custom pickup, Lot J251.1 at Kissimmee 2026, pushes those classic boundaries with a comprehensive modern rebuild. It successfully marries the curved, post-war sheet metal with contemporary LS power and a sophisticated air-ride chassis. Every inch of the truck has been massaged, from the frenched headlights to the intricate custom pinstriping. Consequently, it stands as a premier example of the restomod movement, where history meets modern driveability. The bright red exterior ensures it will be a focal point when it crosses the block on Friday, January 9th. It is a vehicle built for the enthusiast who wants the aesthetic of the fifties without the mechanical limitations of the past.
The visual presence of this 1954 Chevrolet 3100 5-Window is defined by its deep red finish and new chrome trim. Pinstriping details add a layer of hand-crafted artistry that sets this build apart from more generic restorations. Frenched headlights streamline the front fenders, providing a smoother and more custom appearance to the face of the truck. Furthermore, the truck sits low over a set of new 15-inch artillery wheels wrapped in classic whitewall tires. This wheel choice maintains a period-correct feel while the stance suggests something much more modern lies beneath. The bodywork appears laser-straight, showcasing the high level of labor invested in the metal before the paint was applied. It is a truck that demands a second look to appreciate the subtle modifications integrated into the classic lines. This Chevrolet is ready to win awards at local shows or reliably cruise the open highway.
Mustang II Front Suspension and Air Ride Technology
Beneath the vintage skin, the 1954 Chevrolet 3100 5-Window features a completely modernized chassis designed for superior handling. A Mustang II front suspension replaces the original straight axle, incorporating rack and pinion power steering for precise control. To achieve the perfect stance, the builder installed a new Air Ride suspension system managed by a P4 controller. This allows the driver to adjust the ride height on the fly for different road conditions or show displays. The rear of the truck is equally advanced, featuring a step-notch frame and a 4-link setup. This hardware ensures the truck remains stable and comfortable even at the lower end of its suspension travel. Power 4-wheel disc brakes provide the necessary stopping force for the upgraded drivetrain, ensuring safety in modern traffic. Every component in the chassis has been updated to provide a modern driving experience that the original designers never imagined.
Custom Red and Plaid Interior With Dakota Digital Gauges
The interior of this 1954 Chevrolet 3100 5-Window is a one-off creation that blends nostalgia with modern luxury. Red upholstery is accented by plaid inserts, creating a vibrant and welcoming cabin environment. For the driver, Dakota Digital RTX gauges provide accurate information while maintaining a look that honors the original dashboard. Comfort is a priority here, with a Vintage Air system providing modern climate control for all-season use. A custom sound system is integrated into the cabin, offering high-fidelity audio during long-distance cruises. The attention to detail extends to the new wiring harness that runs from front to back, ensuring electrical reliability. This cockpit is far more refined than the utilitarian cabins found in stock 1954 models. It provides a sanctuary where the owner can enjoy the sights and sounds of a classic truck in total comfort. Every handle and switch has been carefully selected to match the overall theme of the build.
Built 5.3L LS V-8 Performance and 4L60 Transmission Specs
Performance for this 1954 Chevrolet 3100 5-Window comes from a built 5.3L LS V-8 engine. This modern powerplant is equipped with a CVF front-runner kit and a high-performance intake for improved breathing and aesthetics. Fuel delivery is handled by a new Holley Terminator fuel injection system, ensuring crisp throttle response and easy cold starts. To keep the V-8 running cool, the engine bay features a modern radiator with a dedicated electric fan. Power is sent through a built 4L60 automatic transmission, allowing for smooth shifts and comfortable highway gear ratios. This combination delivers significantly more horsepower and torque than the original Stovebolt six-cylinder could ever produce. The engine bay is neatly organized, showcasing the polished components and custom pinstriping that matches the exterior. It is a drivetrain built for the long haul, offering the reliability of a modern Chevrolet truck. This setup transforms the 3100 into a truly capable performance machine.
1954 Chevrolet 3100 5-Window Summary
The 1954 Chevrolet 3100 5-Window is a masterpiece of the restomod genre, successfully blending mid-century charm with 21st-century performance. Its 5.3L LS engine and Air Ride suspension make it a highly capable cruiser that requires no mechanical excuses. The custom interior and intricate pinstriping demonstrate a commitment to high-level craftsmanship throughout the entire build process. With modern amenities like Vintage Air and Holley EFI, it is a classic that can be driven and enjoyed daily. It remains one of the most desirable body styles in the history of American pickups. This truck is prepared to serve as a centerpiece in any collection of high-end customs. Bidders at the Kissimmee 2026 auction will find a vehicle that is ready for both the show floor and the open road. It is a beautiful tribute to the legacy of Chevrolet’s Advance Design trucks. This 3100 represents a rare chance to acquire a fully sorted and highly documented custom build.
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Source: mecum.com
