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MONROE — Larry Shepherd has always loved the classic look of the tri-five classic Chevys, 1955, ’56 and ’57.
Shepherd said they were the hottest, quickest cars on the road during their era.
“I always wanted one. I liked the grill and I liked the look of it,” he said. “It’s a good solid machine. There’s no rattles, it is responsive even though it has a little noisy engine.”
That is why the 67-year-old retiree from the old Champion International in Hamilton purchased a 1956 Chevy 2-door post sedan with 45,000 miles from a man in Beavercreek in August 1993.
His General Motors 1973-1974 metallic blue body and Mercedes grey top feature 355 Chevy small block V-8 engine with a four-speed transmission, and a Hurst shifter and linkage.
His car, which was assembled in the former General Motors Plant in Norwood, sports a 210 Delray series trim and historical license plate that says, “Fine 56.”
The car also has a full-tilt front end, bench seating and an odometer reading today of more than 75,000 miles.
Shepherd said at least once a week he takes his car out for a spin to keep the engine turned over.
He also likes to drive his Chevy to nearby car shows or cruise-ins like the Shriner’s Mother’s Day Charity Car Show at Smith Park in Middletown to interact with other car enthusiasts and the general public.
“I enjoy the cars and the great folks, I’ve really made a lot of great friends,” he said.
Shepherd said he has had thoughts about selling the vehicle, which would be hard to part with.
“I’m reluctant to sell it, but I’m not doing a lot with it. I’m not getting out as much as I used to.
“Somebody would really have to love the car (in order for him to sell it),” he said of his vehicle that has won him trophies and open shows top 40 placement at Smith Park.
“I’ve certainly enjoyed it. It’s just a super car.”
Contact this reporter at (513) 483-5219 or dewilson@coxohio.com.
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