1953 CHEVROLET BEL AIR 2­DR HARDTOP
Designer: Harley Earl

Estimate: $27,000 - ­ $38,000

Chassis Number: C530034016
Decoded: C=Bel Air; 53=1953; 0=Oakland, CA assembly plant; 34016=33,016th 1953 Chevrolet
scheduled for production at the Oakland plant
Engine: 235 cid OHV in­line 6­-cylinder
1­-barrel Carburetor / 108 bhp
3­-Speed Column Shift Manual Transmission
Four Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Mileage: 12,049

● Outstanding Styling
● Superb Authentic Restoration
● Well Appointed

The Model: For 1953, Chevrolet stepped up to the plate with all new exterior styling offering three distinct trim ­levels to their customers. Fleet and economy buyers were aimed towards the 150 series, while those looking for a little more pizzazz sought out the 210’s. But those wanting a lot of flash and a bit of glamour stepped up to the new Bel Air line. One of the most popular models was the 2­door hardtop “Sport Coupe” which saw 99,047 copies produced that year. Featuring plenty of chrome up front with the distinctive grille, the streamlined side trim and wrap-around back­lights, Chevrolet’s Bel Air was the smartest looking car in the low-­priced three. Offered in a wide spectrum of two-­tone choices and with a long list of options, Chevy buyers were among the proudest which is why they led the sales race with over 1,356,000 units sold.

The Car: This Bel Air Sport Coupe was treated to a full professional restoration within the last 10­years and has been maintained in private collections since its completion. Finished in Surf Green with complimenting Woodland Green roof and side insert, this beautiful coupe shows off all the design elements that made it a sales winner back in 1953. Under the hood the trusty Chevrolet Six is properly detailed, while interior appointments provide all the creature comforts of the day, heater/­defroster, push­-button radio and even a driver’s side optional spotlight. Other accessories tinted glass, include rocker ­panel moldings, fuel­ filler scratch guard, optional bumper and grille guards, wide whitewall tires with the wheels wearing full covers and of course “skirts” for the rear wheel openings. Showing just a bit of road ­patina since its completion, all this Bel Air really needs is a little love, care and a chance for you to see the USA in this Chevrolet.