Tri-Five

[1] Revolutionary in their day, they spawned a devoted following that exists in clubs, websites and even entire businesses that exclusively cater to the enthusiasts of the Tri Five automobiles.

[8] The Bel Air was an instant hit with consumers, with a minimally equipped One-Fifty models starting under $1600 and featuring a six cylinder engine.

[9] The introduction of the new optional 162 horsepower Chevrolet 265 cid V8, coupled with the Powerglide automatic transmission quickly earned the model the nickname "The Hot One".

In the first year of production, the oil filter was considered an option, although not having it led to significantly shorter engine life.

It meant huge gains in sales for Chevrolet, who sold 104,849 Bel Air models, due in part to the new V8 engine introduced a year before.

Prices ranging from $1665 for the 150 sedan with six cylinder engine to $2443 for the V8 equipped convertible, with Nomad models running slightly higher.

[17] The last of the Tri-Five Chevrolets introduced several changes, including the large tailfins, "twin rocket" hood design, even more chrome, tri-color paint and a choice from no less than seven different V8 engines.