1958 was the year when Chevrolet decided to launch a brand-new nameplate to refresh its full-size lineup. Impala was initially available as the top Bel Air version, but the overnight success turned it into the company’s new superstar.
Impala became a stand-alone series a year later, and despite embracing separate paths from the Bel Air, the two models continued to share most parts and engines.
However, Impala’s skyrocketing popularity turned the Bel Air into a second-class citizen of Chevy’s lineup. Many people still loved the Bel Air, but it was nobody’s choice if they had the budget for an Impala.
Chevrolet kept the Bel Ai generations in sync with the Impala, so the 1960 release was the final year of a new series. The GM brand was preparing for a new restyling, and most attention was aimed at Impala.
A 1960 Bel Air that has been having a challenging time is pictured sitting in a field, hoping to impress someone willing to give it a complete restoration. Depending on the angle, the Bel Air looks responsible, but a closer inspection reveals details that could make many walk away.
I really can’t help but start with the engine under the hood. This Bel Air comes with nothing but bad news in terms of engines. Not only the unit in charge of putting the wheels in motion is a six-cylinder engine, but the same powerplant is currently stuck.
It indicates the car has been sitting for a very long time, and naturally, this leads us to the next big problem. The amount of rust is concerning. The photos reveal massive rust damage on the floors, and I doubt simple patches would help restore those panels.
New ones are likely needed, so be ready for serious metalwork on this Bel Air. eBay seller backyardclassicstrf says the car sells with front-end damage, presumably as a previous owner hit a pole or something similar. It’s unclear if the impact broke the radiator or the damage also affected the engine, but you should closely inspect the engine bay before committing to a purchase.
This Bel Air makes more sense as a parts car in many ways, mainly because it can serve as a donor for an Impala project. However, this example could be an intriguing purchase if you wanted to restore a classic Bel Air without spending a small fortune on the project car.
The selling price is $2,500, but the owner has also enabled the Make Offer button, so you could get the car for much less. You can find this Bel Air in Minnesota, and considering all the engine problems detailed above, it won’t move anytime soon. You’ll need a trailer to take the car home.