The Bel Air name was first used for a model in the Styeline range, then for 1953 for a top-of-the-line series with its own identity. The Bel Air luxury range was distinguished by additional chrome trim and badges.

Sales success

The L-head 150 series engine was rated at 108 bhp (SAE) in manual shift cars, while a slightly more powerful version was available in those with the Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission. Sales of these first "2400C" cars were good, with more than half a million sold in 1953, and just under half a million in 1954. These were glorious years in the history of the company, thanks largely to the great success of the Bel Air.

Eyebrows to fins

The body lines changed for 1955, from "eyebrows" over the main lights to fins at the rear, fittings and trim remained in tune with the Bel Air up-market theme. Under the hood the new 256 CID (4.3 litre) 162 bhp V8 was introduced on these cars for 1955. The "2400C" Bel Air series ran though to 1957, before a new line carring the name was introduced. Though the 1980s, the Bel Airs of some 30 yrs earlier became valued as representatives of a past automotive age.

A 1953 Bel Air sedan with the heavy chrome, solid body, and partly shrouded rear wheels that were part of the make-up of the first Bel Airs, and many of their US contemporaries

Photo Autopresse
MCMXCI, Edito-Service S.A. D1 078 02-4