What color should I paint my 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air?

Question

This car, the same one on my profile here, is in the shop and being stripped down as we speak. It's getting slammed, shaved, frenched and coker wide whites thrown on. Here's the deal, I haven't decided on what color to go with yet but have it down to two custom color choices:

Deep blood red (similar to a "Black Cherry" paint job). A black base coat is laid on and then layers of candy brite red are painted on so in the end, it's deep and dark with highlights of red in the light.

Deep custom blue with white interior. Most likely a midnight blue with blue pearl.

Your opinion counts, she's getting her body work done now and soon, my profile will be updated with a photo of my car with the new color.

Yes, willing to take custom color answers as well. If you have another color in mind, voice it.

Answer 1

While I am partial to blue, your description of the red-tinted paint job sounds like a winner.



I'd be tempted to see some silver-tinted ghost flames showing through the candy layers, myself...

Answer 2

On the 1953 Bel Air the blue with white pearl would look best. The wide whites will be a nice accent!

Answer 3

The '59 Bel Airs had a really (kinda ugly) sky blue offering - among others. You could be a purist and go that route or check the paint layering and go back to that which you find above the primer. You're a lucky soul to have this car for that is one bodacious super ride.

Answer 4

My grandfather has the same car, not absolutely sure of the year though. I think his is a '56. His car is a raspberry red with matching interior. Of course, he still has the white stripe too. Very pretty.

Answer 5

I'm Old School, so I say Flat Black with Scallops and Pinstripes on the hood

Answer 6

A factory colour scheme - black roof over burgundy body. It makes for a very elegant car.

Answer 7

Id say blue with a white top or yellow with a white top.

Answer 8

I think it should be dark, dark red with a white top

Answer 9

well id like the colour midnight black