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A Stripped-Down Survivor with Potent V8 Power: The 1956 Chevrolet 150 Business Coupe was the no-frills workhorse of the Tri-Five Chevy lineup, prioritizing practicality over creature comforts. The example heading to Indy 2025 on Friday, May 16th, however, is far from ordinary. This rare model has undergone a comprehensive frame-off restoration, showcasing its original Calypso Cream and Black exterior and a spartan Black and Cream interior. More significantly, it’s equipped with a potent 265 cubic inch V8 engine featuring a dual quad carburetor setup, delivering surprising performance in this lightweight, stripped-down package. Its status as a Southern car further adds to its appeal as a well-preserved example of a unique breed.
Spartan Elegance, Factory Deleted Features: The 1956 Chevrolet 150 Business Coupe was designed for those who needed basic transportation without unnecessary extras. This example proudly displays its original Calypso Cream and Black two-tone exterior, a classic color combination of the era. Inside, the Black and Cream interior reflects the car’s no-nonsense purpose, notably featuring a factory back seat delete with fixed rear windows, maximizing cargo space. True to its “Business Coupe” designation, this model also features factory deleted radio, cigarette lighter, passenger sun visor, arm rests, and heater, highlighting its focus on functionality over luxury. This lack of adornments only serves to emphasize the car’s clean lines and purposeful design.
Dual Quad Powerhouse: Despite its utilitarian nature, this 150 Business Coupe packs a significant punch under the hood. It’s powered by a 265 cubic inch V-8 engine producing a healthy 240 horsepower thanks to its desirable dual quad carburetor setup. This “Power Pack” option transformed the base model into a surprisingly quick performer. Further enhancing its performance credentials are a GM 1956 Batwing air cleaner, original double tower cylinder heads, factory deep groove pulleys, and 1956 Rams Horn exhaust manifolds, all contributing to the engine’s power output and authentic period-correct presentation.
Engaging Three-Speed Manual: Connecting the potent V8 to the rear wheels is a close-ratio 3-speed manual transmission. This gearbox provides a more engaging and sporting driving experience compared to an automatic, allowing the driver to fully exploit the engine’s power and the car’s relatively light weight. The close ratios would have offered quicker acceleration through the gears, making this spartan coupe a surprisingly fun car to drive.
Frame-Off Restoration, Southern Roots: The fact that this 150 Business Coupe has undergone a frame-off restoration signifies a meticulous and thorough rebuild, ensuring that the car is presented in excellent condition from the chassis up. Its history as a Southern car often implies better preservation due to a less harsh climate, further adding to its desirability as a well-maintained and rare example of a unique and often overlooked model in the Tri-Five Chevy lineup.
Summary:
- 1956 Chevrolet 150 Business Coupe with a frame-off restoration.
- Rare model with factory back seat and comfort feature deletes.
- Powered by a 265/240 HP dual quad V-8 engine.
- Close-ratio 3-speed manual transmission.
- Original Calypso Cream and Black exterior.
- Black and Cream interior.
- Southern car.
Disclaimer: Details provided are based on available information and documentation. Condition and specific features may require personal inspection.
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