Call me crazy-- and I'm sure the good folks at every auction house surely will -- but the whole 100% original matching numbers thing has just never tickled my fancy. I'm a resto mod guy. I dig the old style blended with engines that run all the time. A side benefit of modern engines in old cars is that they don't smell like old cars which means they don't pollute like old cars.
And unfortunately, that's the point GM is taking with this 1955 Chevy Bel Air featuring the new CARB approved LS3 E-Rod. Yes, E-Rod.
GM Performance Parts is advertising the new 6.2-liter, 430 horsepower V8 as an eco-friendly alternative as it happens to get 23 mpg when hooked to GMs 4L65-E four-speed auto.
According to GM, the E-Rod engine, "delivers on the expectations of a new generation of hot rodders and custom car builders, where greater fuel economy and lower emissions play more important roles in their projects."
No pricing was announced as it varies by dealer, but the strikethrough price online for part number Part# 19244805 is $9,375.
23 mpg and 430 horsepower in a '55? Win win. Make this a Nomad and it's my dream car. The car will be on display at the Barrett-Jackson Orange County Auction this weekend joined by a Linginfelter '55 pickup with a 5.3-liter E-Rod making 315 hp.
