Chevrolet Bel Air 409

Everything about the 1962 Bel Air looked plain, but to drive it was far different. Chevrolet brought it out as the horsepower wars were hotting up in the early 1960s, fitting the 409ci (6.7-liter) big-block V8 and creating a car which could chirp I he tyres in every gear. In 1962 the engine was rated at 380bhp (283kW), but with I win four-barrel carburettors this went to 409bhp (305kW). Though the 409 could be ordered in any body style, most chose the coupe because of its 'bubble-top' looks and light weight. More pounds could be shed by ordering aluminium front panels from the factory; in fact Chevy made 12 cars like this which were aimed squarely at drag racers. Inside, the car was sparse as most buyers were interested only in speed, though there was a small steering column-mounted 7,000rpm rev Counter. The car was so good it won the NHRA S/S (Super Stock) drag-racing championship in 1962.

Chevrolet Bel Air 409 Specifications