Sales Techs Available: 1-877-305-8966
Story and Photography by David W. Temple
There was a time – a long time, actually – when station wagons were considered anything but cool. In fact, they were often shunned by collectors and seen as little more than parts donors for two-door hardtops and convertibles. That perception began to change about a decade ago, and now the once "lowly" station wagon has become highly desirable.
One such wagon, a 1955 Chevy Two-Ten, is showcased here. However, this particular example has been made even cooler than its original factory configuration, thanks to a series of thoughtful modern upgrades.
Owned by Tom Chinn of Longview, Texas, this Sea Mist Green and Neptune Green wagon came into his possession in the stunning condition you see here. Tom purchased it from a fellow East Texan who had already completed a body-off-frame resto-mod several years earlier.
Under the hood is a carburetor-fed, 500-horsepower 383 stroker engine mated to a 700R4 transmission that turns a 3.35 Posi rear end. This setup provides more than enough power to make this wagon a head-turner. Complementing the engine are Tri-Y headers and Flowmaster mufflers, which produce just the right amount of rumble. A Griffin radiator with an electric fan ensures the engine stays cool, even during Texas summers.
The driver is kept informed of the engine’s vitals via Classic Instruments gauges, while the suspension and braking systems have been upgraded for modern performance. Intro Hammer Wheels – 19-inch at the front and 20-inch at the rear – and a lowered suspension give the car a sleek street-rod appearance. McGaughy’s slotted and drilled power disc brakes provide a significant improvement in stopping power.
Inside, a Vintage Air Gen IV A/C system keeps the cockpit comfortable during scorching Texas heat waves. For entertainment, an Alpine stereo system delivers crisp tunes through Alpine PDX amps, 6.5-inch Treo speakers, and a 10-inch Metro subwoofer. Ingeniously, the stereo components are hidden under the back seat, preserving the car's cargo-carrying capacity when the seat is folded down.
While the wagon boasts modern conveniences, it maintains much of its original factory look, including the two-tone paint scheme and interior. Subtle modifications, however, enhance its functionality and style:
Back in 1955, this Chevy Two-Ten wagon occupied a mid-level position in the Chevrolet lineup, between the economy-minded One-Fifty series and the premium Bel Air offerings. Both the Two-Ten and Bel Air series included four-door wagons, while the One-Fifty series only offered a two-door option.
Later in the model year, Chevrolet introduced the Nomad, a sporty two-door wagon that was added to the Bel Air lineup. This addition ensured all three series featured a two-door wagon. Despite this, the sales leader of the group was the Two-Ten four-door version, with over 82,000 units sold in 1955.
Today, not many Two-Ten wagons have survived, which only adds to their appeal. Their timeless styling and historical significance ensure they stand out wherever they go. Tom Chinn’s beautifully restored 1955 Chevy Two-Ten wagon is a testament to the enduring charm and versatility of these classic family haulers.