1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad 2-Door Station Wagon
2021.0033.0005, Generously donated by an anonymous donor
Engine: 265 cu. in. (4.3L) Cylinders: 8
Output: 162 HP @ 4400 RPM
Transmission: Three-speed manual
Wheelbase: 115”
Overall Length: 200”
Top Speed: 101 MPH
No. Produced: 6,103
Original Base Price: $2,472
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
General Motors took pride in the attention to detail in every nook and cranny of its vehicles, from the exterior to the interior. Many stylists and designers contributed to the styling of the Bel Air Nomad, but the most considerable kudos went to Carl Renner, the assistant chief designer. The interior dash of the Bel Air included a speedometer centered on the driver’s side, which was mirrored on the passenger side, but with a radio speaker in place of a speedometer.
From the start, American automobile companies relied on illustrated advertisements well into the 1950s. Artists and car companies had better artistic flexibility minus the hassle of set designs, hiring models, and everything required for an advertisement photoshoot. Another benefit of illustration advertisement is that it gives companies a more efficient way to show off two-tone combinations. The Chevy Bel Air advertisements often illustrated middle-class families enjoying the outdoors with the advertised vehicle as 1955 the focal point.