The remarkable year was 1950, when Chevrolet brought in a sweeping design for cars that established an archetype which stayed on for decades. The model was called Bel Air Hardtop convertible. It was Chevy’s counterpart of the new body style that was launched by Cadillac and Buick, Oldsmobile in late 1949. After the label was recognized, it was later simply called “Hardtop”. These models first came into existence around 1920s but it did not fascinate car enthusiasts. But the modified version had finally thrived. Chevy’s Bel Air was marketed in affordable price range.

The Chevy Bel Air was very sophisticated because of its two tone color combinations. The interiors have bright colors which match the exterior colors. It has convertible type doors and quarter windows that rolled down out of sight, with a steel roof which is welded in place. When the Bel Air two-door Hardtop was introduced, it was a big leap on how Chevrolet devised the new concept for better sport cars.

Come 1953, Chevrolet reinvented Bel Air. There emerged two lower series, the 150 and 210. Its body panels, front and rear ends were altered but maintained in essence the frame and mechanics of the 1949-1952 cars. It also introduced a wide chrome strip of molding from the rear fender bulge, to the rear bumper. The label “Bel Air” was also incorporated which other models do not have. Continue reading →