1961 Chevrolet Bel Air Rises From Junkyard, Impala Alternabe Wannabe

We all know how the Bel Air gave birth to the Impala and eventually became a backup plan for full-size Chevy buyers, but no one can deny that it continued to be a very interesting presence in the American car space.

The Bel Air was still the dominant choice in the full-size world, sharing many parts, engines, and styling with the Impala.

However, the difference between the Bel Air and the Impala increased significantly in the early 60s when the latter’s sales increased. In 1960, the Impala became the best-selling car in the United States, while in 1961, Chevrolet launched the Super Sport, transforming its full-size flagship into a style suitable for everyone. The car now had a variety of engines, from six-cylinder mills to more powerful V8s that fit the SS like a glove.

A 1961 Bel Air landed on Craigslist not too long ago with a great deal of purpose but a condition that would turn many buyers away. The car looks like it’s been sitting in a junkyard, and God knows how long it’s been lying under the sky, although the photos suggest that you should expect a serious restoration project in all departments.

The metal looks rough, and I can easily see several holes in the floor. It’s safe to assume that the undercarriage needs everything, along with the overall metal shape.

You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out that the car isn’t finished anymore, and the owner explains on Craigslist that what you see is what you get, with no extras available. The Bel Air was used as a sponsor for another project, so it lost the engine and transmission, one door, and most of the interior.

I wouldn’t be surprised to see this Bel Air sold as a parts car, especially since the restoration work was not for the faint of heart. The Bel Air is a challenging project in all respects, although the lack of an engine and transmission is not a reason to leave. Some buyers may try to build an Impala clone, so installing a supercharged V8 into a 1961 model year would be a good start.

Bad shape does not allow Bel Air to sell for a lot of money, so the owner expects get only $1,400 for the car. It means the Bel Air can be yours for the price of a new iPhone, although you’ll spend a lot more to get the car ready for the road. An all-original Bel Air can sell for around $50,000 in decent shape, but you can make a great daily driver for around $10K.

You can find this Bel Air near Springfield, and you’ll need a trailer to get it home.

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