1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad
2021.0033.0005, Savoy Collection, 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: 197”
Top Speed: 91 MPH
No. Produced: 6,103
Original Base Price: $2,472
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
The original Nomad was a 1954 concept car designed for the General Motors Motorama show. The six-passenger station wagon featured the Corvette’s style and its inline 6-cylinder engine. Chief designer Harley Earl’s “dream car” was never built. The concept of a station wagon was so well received that in 1955, General Motors produced a re-styled Nomad. Many designers had a hand in the project, but Carl Renner, an assistant chief designer, deserves the most credit.
This Bel Air Nomad was originally produced at the Baltimore, MD, assembly plant and was equipped with a V-8 engine. Component upgrades included a Ram Jet fuel-injected 350 cu. in. engine, overdrive automatic transmission with floor shifter, power steering, power 4-wheel disc brakes, Vintage air-conditioning, and a tilt steering column. Production numbers were limited, making the 1955 Bel Air Nomad a popular vehicle among classic car collectors.