The 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air. A name that evokes images of classic American styling, chrome-laden elegance, and the optimism of the late 1950s. This particular Bel Air, however, is far from stock. It’s a restomod masterpiece, a stunning blend of vintage aesthetics and modern performance. Powered by a monstrous 572ci GM Performance V8, riding on a Ridetech air suspension, and featuring a custom interior, this Bel Air is a true showstopper, a car that’s as comfortable cruising down the boulevard as it is turning heads at a car show.
A Blue Beauty Reborn
This 1958 Bel Air started its journey as a stalled project out of California, acquired by the seller in 2016. What followed was a multi-year build, a labor of love carried out with the assistance of a relative. The steel body was stripped and primed in 2011, with the brightwork refinished at Sherm’s Custom Plating. The build truly took off in 2019, with the bodywork meticulously primed, block-sanded, and treated to four coats of Spies Hecker metallic dark blue paint, followed by three layers of clearcoat. The result is a deep, lustrous finish that perfectly complements the car’s classic lines.
Modern Stance, Classic Style
The car’s stance is both aggressive and elegant, thanks to Schott Octane forged billet aluminum wheels measuring 19×8” up front and 20×10” out back. The polished accents and bronze ceramic-coated recesses add a touch of sophistication. Michelin Pilot Sport tires, with shaved sidewalls, provide both grip and style. A Ridetech air suspension, complete with a splined front sway bar, allows for adjustable ride and exceptional handling. Wilwood disc brakes, with four-piston calipers and drilled and slotted rotors, provide modern stopping power.
A Custom Cockpit of Comfort and Style
The interior is a testament to the craftsmanship of Bux Customs. The front bench was overhauled, a contoured rear seat frame was fabricated, and custom door and side panels were created before being upholstered in Napali Mocha leather from Relicate, accented with tan patterned cloth inserts. The floors were smoothed, sound-deadened, and covered with blue square-weave carpets. Billet Specialties hardware adds a touch of class, while a custom center console houses a Hurst shifter, a Bluetooth-capable Kicker head unit, air suspension controls, and billet aluminum cupholders. The seller notes that the Vintage Air system does not blow cold and does not hold a charge.
Powerhouse Performance
Under the hood lies the heart of this beast: a 572ci GM Performance V8 crate engine, finished in satin bronze. A Barry Grant Demon carburetor, MSD distributor, Concept One accessory drive, and dual-snorkel air cleaner housing contribute to the engine’s impressive performance. Custom stainless-steel headers from Lemon Headers, flowing into a 3” dual exhaust system with Borla mufflers, create a symphony of sound. The seller notes an oil leak from the oil pan after driving.
Drivetrain and Transmission
Power is sent to the rear wheels through a Tremec TKO-600 five-speed manual transmission, a two-piece carbon-fiber driveshaft from The Driveshaft Shop, and a Currie 9” rear end. A McLeod Racing clutch assembly ensures smooth and reliable shifts.
Award-Winning Build
This custom Bel Air isn’t just a beautiful car; it’s an award-winner. It received a Top 25 award at the Triple Crown of Rodding and was featured in the January 2023 issue of Modern Rodding magazine.
A Classic Reimagined
This 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air is a stunning example of what can be achieved when classic styling meets modern performance. It’s a car that’s sure to impress both car enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
Summary/Specs List:
- Model: 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop
- Engine: 572ci GM Performance V8
- Transmission: Tremec TKO-600 5-Speed Manual
- Exterior Color: Metallic Dark Blue
- Interior Color: Brown Leather with Tan Cloth Inserts
- Key Features: Ridetech air suspension, Wilwood disc brakes, custom interior, 572ci engine, Schott wheels.
Photo credit: alecparisphotography
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle. For more information on this specific car, you can reach out to the seller.
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
