The 2002 Chevrolet Bel Air pays hommage to the orginal legend. The two-door concept celebrates an American icon in a manner reminiscent of the 1950s originals with style, performance and an exciting new Vortec 3500 turbocharged five-cylinder concept engine. The rear-drive Bel Air concept was inspired by several interior design cues from its 1950s predecessor.

The rear-wheel-drive concept also was inspired by several interior design cues from its 1950s predecessor. The simple, elegant passenger compartment features a twin-element instrument panel, steering column-mounted gearshift and bench seats.

The original small-block Chevrolet V8 option featured in the 1955 used the latest advances in engine technology to set a new benchmark for performance and dependability. The 2002 Bel Air is powered by a Vortec 3500 turbocharged inline five-cylinder concept engine based on the highly regarded inline engine family that debuted in GM’s midsize sport-utility vehicles. The all-aluminum engine delivers up to 315 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque, and is mated to a Hydra-Matic 4L60-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission.

To provide the appropriate structure for a large convertible, the Bel Air concept uses a 21st century interpretation of body-on-frame construction, employing the same hydroforming technology used in the frame rails of the Corvette and GM’s new midsize sport-utility vehicles. The hydroformed frame rails help provide impressive torsional rigidity and stiffness.