The Bel Air was the model that brought home the bacon during the ’50s, but the last years of the decade brought a major full-size overhaul that turned this model into the backup plan for most buyers.
1958 witnessed the introduction of the Impala, Chevrolet’s newest and coolest kid on the block, which rapidly became an overnight sensation. It launched as the top Bel Air version before gaining series status a year later.
The Bel Air was still an intriguing model, but the Impala provided buyers with the best Chevrolet could offer in the full-size lineup.
A 1958 Bel Air landed on Craigslist a few days ago with an intriguing promise and a setup that could allow for a somewhat easy restoration.
The Bel Air looks like it’s been sitting for several years, so you should expect the typical problems, including undercarriage rust. The floors have already been invaded by rust, but the owner claims they can easily be fixed. However, they also mention a full replacement as a possible fix, so it’s safe to assume the damage is extensive.
The rust has also made its way to other parts, including the headlight eyelids, but the damage doesn’t look as concerning as you’d typically find on a 1958 car.
The best part is that the car is still original and 99% complete. It’s a sign that this Bel Air never served as a donor for other projects, albeit this is rather common in the restoration market. Bel Airs typically become donors for Impalas, as most owners want to own the top full-size models. Impalas and Bel Airs share most parts, engines, and styling, especially if they are early model numbers, so they can both contribute to restoring a full-size Chevrolet.
The second best part is the engine under the hood. While 1958 witnessed the debut of the almighty 348, this Bel Air comes with a 283 under the hood. The seller didn’t share more information, so it’s impossible to tell if the mill starts and runs without an in-person inspection. I wouldn’t be surprised if the engine were seized, but a good mechanic should be able to decipher everything and determine the chances of putting this Bel Air back on its wheels with the original drivetrain.
The car checks many boxes for a restoration candidate, so it’s a shame it’s not an Impala. An Impala in this condition, with everything original and 99% complete, would have been significantly more expensive, so in this case, the owner expects to get approximately $4,500 for the Bel Air.
The vehicle is located near Albuquerque, New Mexico, and you’ll need a trailer to take it home, considering it has likely been sleeping in the same place for years.