There is something like a cult following around the classic Chevrolet Bel Air coupe from the 1950s, with shops restoring these venerable cars to drivable condition even today. This example comes from Retro Designs and is on sale for an eye-watering 350,000 USD.
What the buyer gets for the money is a perfectly restored vehicle on a purpose-built chassis by Custom Scott’s Hot Rods. The suspension is air-cushioned, and the brake system involves six-piston Wilwood calipers for adequate deceleration at all times.
The latter actually makes a lot of sense, because the car sources its power from a supercharged V8 rated at 650 PS (640 hp / 477 kW). An automatic gearbox drives the rear wheels, which measure 20 inches across and come wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires.
The interior is every bit as detailed as the body and brings a plethora of modern amenities to the table, including a Vintage Air AC, a Rockford Fosgate audio system, and a Lokar gear lever. Everything is integrated in the retro aesthetic so seamlessly that non-professionals will have a hard time telling the cabin from stock.
Retro Designs has quite a bit of experience working with the Bel Air model. A while ago, the team caused plenty of excitement at SEMA when it showed another similar project. While that one was not for sale, this one is – if you can stomach the price, of course.