In the late 1950s, Chevrolet’s top priority was to unseat Ford as the dominant carmaker in the United States since Ford had held that position for far too long.
Chevy’s strategy was driven by models like the Bel Air, but the push didn’t bear fruit until 1958, when the Impala was introduced and the full-size portfolio was given a makeover. The Chevy 210 contributed to good sales in 1957, but the Bel Air remained Chevrolet’s star vehicle due to a number of significant modifications.
One of them was the introduction of the 283, a small-block V8 that later became very common in the GM brand’s full-size family, especially on the Impala. It was available in three versions on the Chevy 210, plus a fuel-injected option offering increased horsepower.
The Blue Flame six-cylinder unit was still the base unit with 130 horsepower, while the 265 was the base V8 with 162 horsepower. The four 283 produced between 185 and 283 horsepower.
The two-door sedan, which arrived earlier this week thanks to vendor Cadolac, was equipped with a 265 V8 when it left the factory. The vehicle’s engine hasn’t changed in 66 years, and the vendor claims that it still starts easily from a gas can hooked up to the original gasoline pump. Although the car can move, it is not yet safe for the road. The automobile still has its original three-speed transmission, but it’s unknown if it shifts well or not. On a 66-year-old car, the fact that it is present should be sufficient.
As anyone can guess by just checking out the photos, this Chevy 210 spent decades in storage. It was saved from an estate and comes with rust in the usuals. It looks like a previous owner wanted to restore the vehicle, at least partially, as they rebuilt the engine and installed new floor pans (though the seller says they’re not welded in).
Although the car isn’t complete, it sells with a lot of other pieces that aren’t already on it, such the grill bar and other extras the seller has offered.
Overall, this Chevy appears repairable, but a vintage car with such a remarkable history isn’t meant for a novice. Only the most expert restorers, preferably with a love for Chevy, should attempt to put this classic model back on the road, especially considering that maintaining the originality of the car is the proper course of action.
.