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Don't Waste Your Money on an iPhone, Save This 1964 Chevy Bel Air Instead

1964 Chevy Bel Air 11 photos
Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution/eBay seller backyardclassicstrf
1964 Chevy Bel Air1964 Chevy Bel Air1964 Chevy Bel Air1964 Chevy Bel Air1964 Chevy Bel Air1964 Chevy Bel Air1964 Chevy Bel Air1964 Chevy Bel Air1964 Chevy Bel Air1964 Chevy Bel Air
Many people believe the Bel Air lost its consumer appeal in 1959 when the Impala gained series status, but the car continued to sell well in the next years, helping Chevrolet reach new records in the United States.
The GM brand's full-size lineup propelled the company to new heights, and Impala and Bel Air played integral roles in this incredible ascension.

Impala debuted as the top Bel Air version in 1958 but embraced its own path in the automotive industry in 1959 when it became a stand-alone series. Chevrolet turned the Impala into a superstar, making the Bel Air the plan B for anyone looking to buy a full-size model from the General Motors company.

The 1964 four-door sedan posted on eBay by seller backyardclassicstrf is here to keep the Bel Air legacy alive, though the car requires a full restoration before even dreaming of returning to the road.

The images indicate the car has been sitting under the clear sky in what looks to be a junkyard for a long time. The owner says they acquired the car not long ago without the hood, though it's unclear if other parts are missing, too.

The Bel Air rolled off the assembly lines with a 283 V8 engine under the hood. It was the base V8 for this model year and also available on the Impala. The 283 was the perfect choice for someone who didn't want the lazy six-cylinder configuration but didn't plan to spend extra on more power, either. The same engine is still in the car, and the great news is that it still turns over by hand (it's unclear if the owner tried to start it, but for now, you'll have to be happy about the mill not yet being seized).

Theoretically, this should allow a good mechanic to bring the engine back to life, but you'll have to inspect the car in person to tell if this is the case.

The body exhibits obvious problems, including occasional rot, and I expect the undersides to align with the general condition, too. New floors will probably be required, and the trunk pan likely exhibits heavy rust damage, too.

Fixing this Bel Air and bringing it back to the road is not an easy mission, but considering the selling price, I don't expect the car to remain available for too long. The vehicle can be yours for the price of a new iPhone, so if you don't feel like spending a thousand bucks on a smartphone, you could get yourself an iconic model whose only option is a complete restoration.

The owner will let the car go to anyone paying $1,250, and if you want to take it home, you must drive your trailer to Thief River Falls, Minnesota.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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