1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad
A-body · Unique 2-door wagon body shared with Pontiac Safari. Pillarl... · America's most stylish station wagon — and one of the rarest tri-fives
Collectible
Production & Overview
Total Production
8,386
Original MSRP
$2,571
Assembly Plants
Multiple GM plants
Wheelbase
115 inches
Body Styles
2-Door Station Wagon
Curb Weight
3,285 lbs
Available Engines
235 235ci — inline-6
Base six
123 hp
265 265ci — V8
Base V8
162 hp
265PP 265ci — V8
Power Pack 4-barrel
180 hp
Buyer Checklist
⚠ Clone warning: Non-matching engine significantly reduces value. Always verify with cowl tag, engine stamp, and registry before purchase.
Verify unique Nomad body panels — many are unavailable as reproductions
Check tailgate operation and latch mechanism
Inspect unique rear roof and window area for rust
Check cowl area and floors for rust
Verify correct two-tone paint via cowl tag
Inspect cargo area for correct checkerboard vinyl pattern
Check chrome tailgate hinges and trim — very expensive to replace
Verify B-pillar area structural integrity
Check for correct vertical taillights unique to Nomad
Road test all systems — difficult parts availability amplifies all problems
Known Problem Areas
Unique body panel rust — rear quarters and tailgate area
Tailgate mechanism failures
Chrome trim unavailability for some pieces
Roof and drip rail rust
Floor pan rust
Incorrect paint combinations
What Drives Value
↑ Increases Value
Numbers-matching V8
Correct two-tone paint verified by cowl tag
Original interior with checkerboard cargo vinyl
All correct body-specific chrome and trim
VCCA certification
↓ Decreases Value
Missing or damaged unique body panels
Incorrect paint combination
Tailgate damage or missing hardware
Heavy structural rust
Restoration Overview
Difficulty
Very High
Parts Availability
Poor for unique panels — good for mechanical
Driver Quality Cost
$40,000 – $75,000
Show Quality Cost
$85,000 – $160,000
Key Suppliers
Classic Industries (limited Nomad parts) · Tri-Five.com · Specialty fabricators
Pop Culture & Legacy
Considered one of the most beautiful American wagons ever designed
Strong presence at tri-five shows and VCCA events
Regularly achieves record prices at Barrett-Jackson and Mecum auctions
Other Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad Years