Classic hot rods are all the rage, especially the vintage Chevy Tri-Fives, but what makes this 1957 Bel Air so special isn’t its pristine paint job or even the car itself. Rather it’s the man behind its customization and the vehicle’s brush with fame that puts it in a category of its own.
Later this month, the famed Ringo car, this particular Tri Five that starred along side Ringo Starr in the NBC prime time special “Ringo,” will cross the auction block at the Santa Monica, California Mecum Auction. Known for its staring role and consequent “Win the Car of Ringo Starr” sweepstakes giveaway, this Chevy is a beautiful collectors piece for television, Tri-Five and Beatles enthusiasts alike.
Customized by the one and only George Barris, the Tri-Five was commissioned for a sweepstakes being held by Craig stereo systems in 1978. The car appeared in the show “Ringo,” a rock and roll version of “The Prince and the Pauper” on April 26th, 1978 along side Ringo Starr, Carrie Fisher, John Riter, George Harris, Art Carney, Angie Dickinson and Vincent Price.
In addition to the custom flamed paint job, the Bel Air features a small block Chevy engine, Lake side pipes, a custom tube grill and western wheels. It also features a black and yellow custom Naugahyde interior, 8-track player, chrome hood ornaments and special Black and Silver enamel paint from Barris.
Hitting the auction block on Saturday July 27th, the car comes with what is believed to be just 70,000 original miles on the odometer and a Certificate Of Authenticity from George Barris.
A rolling piece of history in many ways, this car is sure to bring in a pretty penny and make its new owner very happy.