Classic Vintage Chevy, 305 V8, Auto, Fun Cruiser

Description

If you like the simple, clean look of the pre-V8 Chevrolets but need a little more go power than the old Stovebolt six could provide, well, perhaps this 1950 Chevrolet Styleline Special is the solution. A great build that combines the smooth curves of the early '50s with later V8 power that makes a big difference in how the car drives, this Chevy is a lot of inexpensive fun. The '50s were a time of pretty radical... changes at GM, but if you're a traditionalist who likes an old car that looks old, the early cars definitely hold some appeal. That classy shade of red isn't the car's original color, but the recent respray works rather well on the swooping body lines. The paint job wasn't a $20k commission so there's flaws here and there, but from a few feet away it looks good and for a car that runs this well, it's easy to overlook some defects in the paint. When it was built, fit and finish were quite good, with doors that align right and a hood that sits flush, and the bodywork underneath is in good condition. Best of all, they left most of the original trim intact, maintaining the '50s styling that made these shoeboxes so popular in their day. And few colors showcase chrome trim better than red, with good bumpers, presentable stainless, and cool dual exhaust tips for a more performance look. The interior has been reupholstered but it doesn't stray too far from the original look. The two-tone vinyl seating surfaces are a little more modern than the original materials, but they're also comfortable and durable, and that's precisely what you want in a car that's built to be driven. Newer burgundy carpets, matching custom door panels, and a beautifully trimmed headliner make the interior a great place to spend your time. Blackface Equus gauges cover the basics, with a large speedometer in front of the driver, and auxiliary fuel, battery, oil, and water units attached to a fabricated panel below. The steering column is original, as is the Art Deco steering wheel, and the dash was painted to match the exterior. Modern A/C is a welcomed addition to the cabin (it does need to be serviced), and the middle console houses a modern AM/FM/CD/Ipod Compatible head unit and a quick-shifting B&M shifter. The finished back seat is comfortable for three passengers and the carpeted trunk is big enough for all their gear. The old six is gone, replaced by a reliable and powerful 305 cubic inch V8 that's a pretty easy fit in the 1950 engine bay. Looking reasonably fresh, the small block makes power using an Edelbrock 650CFM 4-barrel carburetor, HEI ignition, and what feels like a cam that makes good torque without making the engine too cranky. A few dress-up pieces shine when you open the hood and upgrades like the modern aluminum radiator make it safe to drive in high heat and traffic. The front suspension is mostly stock with the exception of front disc brakes and new bushings, while a stock rear end with highway friendly gears sits on leaf springs in the back. A TH350 3-speed automatic transmission supplies the power and with all the recent maintenance this Chevy has had underneath, it's actually a decent handler. Steel wheels with newer hubcaps are the perfect '50s rolling stock and carry 225/75/15 blackwall tires for a low-key look. This Chevy is a neat restored rod that runs and drives superbly and could be enjoyed as-is or serve as the perfect foundation for the next round of upgrades. Call today!