Photos courtesy Auctions America.
Generally speaking, a 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air two-door hardtop Sport Coupe with an older restoration crossing the auction block wouldn’t be particularly newsworthy. When the car is being sold at no reserve, with all proceeds going to benefit the Auto Restoration Program at McPherson College in McPherson, Kansas, we’re willing to make exceptions.
Donated to McPherson College last year, the Cay Coral Metallic Bel Air came from a couple who were long-time supporters of the school, going so far as to establish a scholarship fund for McPherson Auto Restoration Program students. The Bel Air was once his wife’s car, and when she passed away, donating the car to the school seemed like the logical thing to do. Part of the donation agreement stipulated the car was to be sold to raise money for the Auto Restoration Program, so no one will be happier when it sells for big money than the widower of its former owner.
The 1958 Chevrolets wore single-year only “Sculpturamic” styling, influenced by the Jet Age. Side trim on Bel Air models was meant to resemble a rocket ship in flight, while Impala models even went so far as to add faux “intakes” ahead of the rear wheels. Previous-year Bel-Airs may be more sought after by collectors, but there’s still a certain elegance to the 1958 model year styling that disappeared as design trends shifted in later years.
McPherson College project director Brian Martin advises that no body or paint work was performed on the car during its time at the school, although the interior was redone by a senior student specializing in trim work. Mechanically, chassis shop students have replaced the brakes and u-joints, while engine shop students have rebuilt the carburetor and performed a tune up. It’s not clear if the Bel-Air was originally a four-barrel carburetor and dual-exhaust car (meaning the 283 V-8 beneath the hood was a Super Turbo Fire, producing 230 horsepower), or if these parts were added by an owner looking for better performance from the 185 horsepower Turbo Fire V-8. Shifting duties are handled by a Powerglide automatic transmission.
The car itself has received a few upgrades over the years, some perhaps necessary in its former South Florida home. The front drum brakes were replaced with discs at some point, and a dealer-installed Cool Pack air conditioning system was added. The Continental kit is a period-correct add-on as well, though these accessories tend to polarize classic car fans.
While not concours-ready, Martin describes the donated Bel Air as a “great driver,” making it perfect for local shows and weekend cruise-ins. Auctions America is predicting a selling price between $15,000 and $25,000 when the car crosses the stage on March 27, and for once, we hope an auction lot sells for much, much more than its estimate.
The Fort Lauderdale sale will take place on March 27-29 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale / Broward County Convention Center. For more information, visit AuctionsAmerica.com.
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