Before and After 1956 Chevy 210

Hagerty’s magazine recently asked readers to submit “before and after” photos of their vehicle restorations. Due to the overwhelming response, we weren’t able to publish all the submissions in Hagerty’s, so each month we’ll post a new restoration online.

Steve Luczak and his father restored this 1956 Chevy 210 over an almost five year period. The car had been stored in a pole barn in Montgomeryville, Pa. for more than 26 years — in fact, the inspection sticker still reads 1973.

“The restoration started as a simple rebuild, we didn’t want to get too fancy, just get it on the road to enjoy,” said Steve. “Fortunately, once we got most of it apart, it only made sense to do a frame-off, as we had the facility and means to do it right. It has the original engine and drivetrain as well as all of its original stainless. Approximately 80 percent of the chrome is original as well. Additionally, the interior is also correct. The paint is Dusk Plum & India Ivory. We painted it as if it were a Bel Air, foregoing the 210 paint scheme, because we thought the Plum would make the front of the car — and its chrome — pop. I enjoy taking the car to local shows as it gets many compliments. It truly was a labor of love.”