Restomod Royalty: This 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Hides an LS3 V8 Beneath Its Classic SkinFew cars capture the optimism of mid-century America quite like the 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air, and this particular two-door hardtop takes that timeless shape and reengineers it for the modern road. Currently listed for auction through Sotheby's Motorsport, the Bel Air is the product of a comprehensive restoration and high-end restomod build that pairs vintage styling with genuine contemporary performance.Finished in a deep Metallic Blue over Silver two-tone, the car keeps its signature chrome trim and classic proportions while folding in subtle modern touches like LED '56-style tail lamps and a purposeful stance over 18-inch Forgeline CH3P wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich G-Force rubber. It rides on an all-new Art Morrison chassis with polished tubular front control arms, JRi coil-over shocks at all four corners, and an independent rear suspension, while Wilwood four-wheel power disc brakes and power rack-and-pinion steering bring the road manners firmly into the present.The real headline sits under the hood: a 6.2L LS3 crate V8, beautifully detailed with a fabricated intake manifold, twin polished intakes, custom Bel Air script coil covers, and polished stainless long-tube headers feeding a dual exhaust. Power runs through a SuperMatic 4L60E four-speed automatic to a Strange rear end with 3.50 gears and a limited-slip differential.AdvertisementAdvertisementInside, custom light gray leather bucket seats sit against dark blue carpeting and a body-colored dashboard. Dakota Digital instrumentation, modern air conditioning, and a Custom Autosound stereo modernize the cabin, while a classic Bel Air steering wheel on a tilt column and a full-length center console with integrated storage and cupholders round out the package. Even the trunk has been fully upholstered and color-keyed.Showing just 266 miles and offered by RK Motors out of Charlotte, North Carolina, the auction carries a starting price of $75,000 and runs through June 23, 2026. You can view the full listing, additional photos, and place a bid here:View the auction on Sotheby's MotorsportRelated ReadingWin Both Ends of Camaro History: 1967 SS and 2024 ZL1 Collector's Edition Up for Grabs⚡️ Read the full article on MotoriousSign up for the Motorious Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.