1955 Classic Chevrolet - 1955 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car

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The Indianapolis 500 Pace Cars has been a part of the Indy 500 race tradition for almost 100 years. Over the years Chevrolet has been given the pace car honor many times. The first time was in 1948 with Chevy's Fleetmaster and then later in 1955.

In 1955 Chevy was the "Hot One" and was all new inside and out. Plus it now had the famous V-8 small block that paced the 1955 Indianapolis 500.

So which new 1955 Chevrolet would be the official 1955 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car? A fully loaded red and white 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible of course!

1955 Chevrolet Convertible Indianapolis 500 Pace Car

The 1955 Chevy Bel Air was Chevrolet's top of the line series. A convertible was the very best choice that the folk at the Indianapolis 500 could make. It was loaded with standard features, richer upholstery and carpets, full wheel hubcaps. A red and white 1955 Chevy Bel Air convertible was to become very popular with consumers after its appearance in the May 30th 1955 Indianapolis 500.

It's not known what engine was in the 1955 Chevrolet Indy Pace Car. However, it was the new 265 cubic inch V-8 named the 265 "Turbo-Fire". It was rated at 162 horsepower with a two-barrel carburetor. A "Power-Pack" version, which Chevy called the "Super Turbo-Fire" was rated at 180 horsepower. A third V-8 was offered later for racing and its horsepower was boosted to 195 with the use of a Corvette camshaft.

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Indianapolis 500 Pace Car

The driver of the 1955 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car was Thomas H. Keating, Chevrolet sales manger. The other person, holding the checkered flag, in the image below is beleived to be Speedway owner Tony Hulman.