The Tri-Five Chevy is a true legend in the classic car world that has never gone out of style. These cars have been built in every style you can think of and have always worn those styles well. Dennis McCarthy built this 1956 Chevy, and it replicates the iconic drag racing look these cars had back in their heyday.
McCarthy is no stranger to building rad rides, he’s built numerous cars for the Fast & Furious films and other movies. For this build, McCarthy wanted to create something that represented what a 1956 Chevy would have looked like when these cars roamed the streets every weekend.
Few vehicles make as grand an entry as the Tri-Five Chevy in the world of historic cars. These models have stood the test of time and effortlessly adapted to every fashion trend thrown their way. They are the epitome of timeless elegance and vintage flair. Dennis McCarthy, who gives the 1956 Chevy a drag-racing makeover reminiscent of its heyday, is the most recent to reinterpret this classic.
McCarthy is far from an amateur. His creations have graced silver screens across the world, leaving tire marks and gasps in the Fast & Furious series and beyond. This particular endeavor aimed to capture the spirit of the 1956 Chevy during its golden era — the weekends it ruled the streets, making heads turn and engines roar in jealousy.
The project, which was initially intended to be a dependable cruiser for routine drives, changed course when Tracy Robinson, McCarthy’s wiring wizard, got his hands on it. Robinson methodically disassembled the car, injecting it with components from the appropriate era to turn it into a true throwback.
What was first intended to be a little renovation suddenly turned into a stunning makeover.
Burbank Speed’s sturdy tiny block serves as the engine of the vehicle. This beast doesn’t just purr; it roars thanks to a strong cam, expertly ported camel hump heads, and a modern Holle carburetor. The power is smoothly transferred to a 9-inch rearend reinforced with a Detroit Locker differential when mated to a Muncie four-speed transmission.
Additionally, it halts as effectively as it accelerates thanks to the full disc brake upgrade. A precisely developed suspension and a modest tub change emphasize the silhouette and ensure that the big tires fit perfectly.
Eager to see this reborn legend in action? Head over to AutotopiaLA’s latest video feature. Witness as McCarthy takes presenter Shawn Davis on a thrilling ride in this masterpiece, proving that the spirit of the 1956 Chevy is far from extinct. It just needed the right touch.