1956 Chevrolet Nomad

“Burgundy Lover”

Owned by: Todd and Teresa Coe

Photos by: Dan Davis

March 2026 Feature: Todd & Teresa Coe’s 1956 Chevrolet Nomad — A Six-Year Street Rod Dream

For the March 2026 Issue, we shine the spotlight on a timeless American icon reimagined with modern drivability and classic style — Todd and Teresa Coe’s stunning 1956 Chevrolet Nomad.

The vision for this Nomad began at the Street Rod Nationals, where Teresa fell in love with a 1956 Bel Air hardtop finished in a similar Burgundy Velvet Pearl and Cashmere color combination. A few months later, Todd and Teresa found this Nomad available for purchase — and the long-term build began.

With 45 years of experience building cars, Todd knew exactly how to transform the classic wagon into something personal, refined, and show-ready.

Classic Looks, Modern Power

Under the hood sits a 1978 Chevrolet 350 cubic inch V8, carefully upgraded for reliability and street performance. The engine features an Elgin street-strip cam, Holley Sniper fuel injection, and Holley Hyperspark ignition for modern throttle response and dependable starting.

Finned aluminum valve covers and matching air cleaner give it that nostalgic hot rod look, while a Top Street Performance serpentine kit and Sanderson ceramic-coated headers add both performance and polish. Chrome and polished aluminum accessories throughout the bay complete the clean presentation.

Backing the small block is a 700R4 transmission paired with a 2800 stall lockup converter from PATC, sending power to a Ford nine-inch rear end with 3.50:1 gears — a perfect setup for cruising and highway driving.

Refined Chassis and Suspension

The Nomad retains its stock frame, but Todd and Levy Burrough upgraded and refined it throughout the build. The front frame section was smoothed, side engine mounts installed, a rear transmission crossmember added, and the fuel tank relocated for improved layout and appearance.

Suspension upgrades include Viking coilovers front and rear, Heidt’s 2-inch drop spindles, and a triangulated four-link rear setup. All suspension components are powder coated for durability and show-quality finish.

An electric emergency/park brake system adds modern convenience without compromising the car’s classic look.

The exterior is finished in a rich Burgundy Velvet Pearl over Cashmere using a Metalux base coat/clear coat system. Spears Automotive/The Body Shop handled the paint and bodywork, delivering a smooth, deep finish that highlights the Nomad’s iconic lines.

Subtle custom touches set this wagon apart. The taillamps feature a custom gasket delete, and the right-side taillamp opens to reveal access to the windshield washer tank fill and battery cut-off switch. A hidden trailer hitch sits discreetly behind the license plate.

The overall look remains true to the 1956 Chevrolet Nomad’s original design, but with just enough refinement to elevate it to modern show standards.

Wheels, Stance, and Street Presence

The Nomad rolls on Ridler 606 chrome wheels — 17×7 up front and 18×9.5 in the rear. Tire sizing measures 225/40ZR17 front and 295/45ZR18 rear, giving the wagon a confident stance without overpowering its classic profile.

The combination of wheel fitment, subtle drop, and tri-five body lines makes this Nomad equally at home on the show field or cruising down the highway.

Comfortable, Cadillac-Inspired Interior

Inside, the wagon delivers comfort with a mild custom single-tone interior crafted by Clanton’s Custom Upholstery. Seating comes from a 2000 Cadillac Eldorado, blending luxury and support seamlessly into the classic cabin.

The stock dash has been refinished to simulate leather, paired with Dakota Digital gauges for precise modern readouts. A downsized 15-inch stock-style steering wheel keeps the vintage feel intact, while a 1998 Cadillac STS console adds functionality.

Additional upgrades include power windows, power locks, power vents, Vintage Air climate control, and 30 percent gray tinted glass for comfort and drivability.

Todd installed the Kenwood head unit and JBL speakers himself, ensuring the sound system matched the build’s overall quality. A Clayton Machine Works gated shifter controls the 700R4 transmission with style and precision.

The trunk area has been fully customized in place of the original spare tire well and now houses the battery, keeping the layout clean and organized.

Todd’s automotive journey spans decades, including previous builds such as a 1983 Chevrolet S10 Pro Street, 1984 Hurst Olds, 1984 Monte Carlo SS, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Pro Street, and a 1981 Monte Carlo CL with a 454 swap.

The 1956 Nomad represents a culmination of experience — blending performance, subtle customization, and clean execution.

Built With Support

Todd and Teresa extend their gratitude to Levy Burrough; Jeff Spears, Jack Spears, and Robert Winningham of Spears Automotive/The Body Shop; Clanton’s Custom Upholstery; Casey King; and Bob Burr for their roles in bringing the project together.

Todd and Teresa Coe’s 1956 Chevrolet Nomad captures everything enthusiasts love about tri-five Chevrolets — iconic styling, V8 power, and timeless appeal — enhanced with modern upgrades for reliability and comfort.

After six years of building, the result is a wagon that honors its heritage while delivering the drivability and refinement expected in today’s street rod scene.

For the March 2026 Issue, this Nomad stands as a perfect example of patience, experience, and passion coming together in one unforgettable classic.