1955 Chevy Bel Air is molded from a 'pile of junk' into a true classic
By JOE L. HUGHES II Ledger Staff Writer joe@gaffneyledger.com

The Spencers' 1955 Bel Air

When Toney and Amy Spencer were looking for a new car in the fall of 2001, they were merely looking for "a nice car to drive," rather than an automobile that would earn them regional and national acclaim.

But with the help of a family friend who was selling a 1955 Chevy Bel Air, the Spencers got more than a vehicle that would get them from one destination to another - they got a classic.

"The car was in pretty decent shape and was even road-ready if we wanted to drive it as it was," Amy Spencer said. "However, we never expected this car to turnout as "nice" as it did... and what started out as a nice drive turned into a trailer queen."

The candy red vehicle with the beige interior was the main attraction for several hours at Carolina Collision in Gaffney on Wednesday.

"It is a real good car," Carolina Collision owner and brother of Toney Spencer, Timmy Spencer, said. "A lot of work went into making this car what it is."

The cost to finish work on the car totalled close to $260,000.

Ken Schrader autographs a model car while in Gaffney this week.

"It is a great feeling to know you can mold a pile of junk into a true classic again," Amy Spencer said.

The "pile of junk" has made quite a name for itself, getting high marks at a show that featured 5,800 cars. It was also featured on the front of an issue of Classic Chevy magazine earlier this year. Such exposure has helped all involved with the process, especially Timmy, who was able to land a high profile customer - NASCAR Nextel Cup legend Ken Schrader

Schrader was in town Wednesday to drop off his Chevy Impala at Carolina Collision as well as sign a couple of model cars.

But the legend also wanted a glimpse at the main attraction.

"It is my brother's car, but I am sure happy for it to gain all the attention it is getting," Timmy Spencer said.