Custom-Built ’55 Chevy 210: Obsession of the Week
Dominator Street Rods’ one-of-a-kind 210 sedan will sway drivers on the road with its old-school charm.
The 1955 Chevrolet 150, 210, and Bel Air are some of the most iconic vehicles of their time and are lovingly referred to by enthusiasts simply as the ’55 Chevy. While the machine was available in three different trims, the Bel Air is the most iconic of the bunch, but this custom-built ’55 210 that we found on Mecum Auctions proves that lower end models from that same date can turn as many heads.
While the Chevy 210 was a child of the ‘50s, the automaker focused on a sleek design without an excessive amount of chrome, which plagued numerous vehicles during the time period. The 210, also known as Two-Ten, became an icon because of its wraparound windshield and prominent beltline. The interior also had its noteworthy points, which, as How Stuff Works states, included swing-type brake and clutch pedals, a central glove box, and an “airliner look” twin-cove instrument panel.
Under the hood, drivers were treated to three available engines. The entry-level model was fitted with a 235 cu. in. inline-six that created somewhere between 123 to 136 horsepower, a V8 making 162 horsepower with a double-barrel carburetor, and the top-of-the-line V8 with a four-barrel carb generating 180 horsepower.
The 210 we found on Mecum may be a little out there when it comes to styling, but it shows that even a lower end model of a ’55 Chevy can look incredible. The vehicle is a custom-built machine by Dominator Street Rods in Tracy, Calif. and features a red paint job that’s highlighted by massive yellow flames. In keeping with Chevy’s original styling, there’s very little chrome. And the chrome that’s available looks awesome.
The interior is also a custom job with black leather seats, a brushed-aluminum dashboard, power windows, classic instrument gauges, and a Budnik aluminum steering wheel. The interior isn’t as loud as the exterior, but it builds upon everything that made the 210 so desirable.
Out of the gate, performance for the ’55 Chevy was great, especially with the more potent V8. But this 210, well it just has more performance. Under the hood lies a 502 cu. in. big-block Chevrolet engine with an Edelbrock intake, Holley dual-feed carburetor, custom air cleaner, and much more. The engine is mated to a Tremec five-speed manual gearbox, while the suspension and brakes have also been upgraded.
Flames don’t look good on every car, but they really suit the lines of the 210. And while others would want something that’s more original, clearly, the ’55 Chevy looks great with any paintjob. Incredible looks, amazing performance, and a comfortable interior, this custom-built 210 may seem like an outlandish machine, but it shares a lot of the same DNA with the original car.