The Tri-Five Chevy is a true legend in the classic car world that has never gone out of style. These cars have been built in every style you can think of and have always worn those styles well. Dennis McCarthy built this 1956 Chevy, and it replicates the iconic drag racing look these cars had back in their heyday.
McCarthy is no stranger to building rad rides, he’s built numerous cars for the Fast & Furious films and other movies. For this build, McCarthy wanted to create something that represented what a 1956 Chevy would have looked like when these cars roamed the streets every weekend.
The car was originally was just going to be a functional driver, but that changed when McCarthy’s wiring guy Tracy Robinson started working on the car. Robinson tore the car down and started adding period-correct parts to the car to make it very authentic. The build really snowballed from there and turned into an outstanding project.
Under the hood, you’ll find a stout small block from Burbank Speed. The engine features a solid cam, camel hump heads with some port work, and a modern Holle carburetor. A Muncie four-speed transmission backs the engine and sends the horsepower to the 9-inch rearend that’s filled with a Detroit Locker differential. The car is brought to a stop thanks to a full disc-brake conversion. The stance of the car is perfect because of the well-designed suspension and a mini tub job to fit a big tire under the Chevy.
You’ll want to watch this video from AutotopiaLA where McCarthy takes host Shawn Davis for a spirited drive in this beautiful vehicle.