1956 Chevy Handyman 150

Since their introduction, the “Tri-Five” Chevrolet automobiles of 1955, 1956 and 1957 have reached iconic status within the ranks of car enthusiasts.  At least part of that mystique is due to the introduction of Chevy’s legendary small-block V8 engine, with the 265 cubic inch powerplant first available for the 1955 model year and expanding to 283 cubic inches for the 1956 and 1957 models.

While the two-door Bel Air models garnered the eye of most people, the two-door station wagon known as the Nomad became exceptionally popular and carved out a niche for itself in the classic car marketplace.  Well restored examples became highlight vehicles of car shows and collector car auctions for many years and still attract a lot of attention today.

While Nomads were highly sought after, it was not the only two-door station wagon styled vehicle in the Chevy line-up.  For all three of the Tri-Five years GM’s entry-level marque offered a sedan delivery version of the body style in the 150 and 210 trim levels.  Known as the Handyman, it replaced the panel-style vehicles based on a truck chassis that Chevy (along with GMC) offered in the late 1940’s and early 1950’s and utilized a single front seat with the rear area open for cargo and equipment.

This 1956 Chevrolet Handyman is a great example of what many car enthusiasts did to the survivors of this era.  Originally built in the Baltimore, MD assembly plant, it is one of just 13,487 150 Series built in 1956 when total Chevrolet car production topped over 1,6 million units making it a rather rare vehicle.  It’s estimated that only about half the number produced remain today.

This car came off the assembly line with a 265 cubic inch inline six-cylinder engine as would be fitting with the lower trim package along with gray and gold vinyl interior and Matador Red paint.  While the original paint color remains, a previous owner started the customization and replaced the engine with a 350 cubic inch small block Chevy powerplant backed by a three-speed automatic transmission.  A gray and black cloth bench seat with center armrest now highlights the interior.

Additional refinements for the car include power steering and dual-reservoir power brakes with front discs and ream drums.  While power windows were an option for the 1956 model year (at a cost of $56) we believe that the power windows on the car were added at the time the car was built to the present configuration.  The dual exhaust provides a nice rumble when cruising the car.

The Handyman was acquired by the present owner in May 2020 and was previously registered in North Carolina.  The car has been driven occasionally and the decals promoting the owner’s classic vehicle portfolio are easily removed.  While we believe the present odometer reading of just over 6,000 miles represents the miles driven since the car was customized we cannot substantiate that and in accordance with statutes governing sales by licensed auto dealers in the State of Missouri the vehicle will be sold “mileage exempt” due to age.

Evergreen Digital Showroom offers this 1956 Chevrolet Handyman 150 at a price of $48,900 USD.  Pre-purchase inspection is both welcomed and advised.  We will arrange transportation at buyer’s expense or will assist the shipper of buyer’s choice.  For additional information or to make an offer, call sales manager Steve Russell at 417-532-8000.