The Chevrolet Nomad Association (CNA) was founded in 1989 for enthusiasts of “Tri-Five” 1955-57 Nomads, and it’s still active today. In fact, registration is open for a meet-up in Kalamazoo, Michigan, which will take place this coming July 19-23. You don’t have to be a Nomad owner to attend, but this AutoHunter-featured 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad Custom Wagon would certainly be a crowd-pleaser. It is listed for sale by a private seller in Prospect, Kentucky.
The Nomad managed to deliver generous cargo space without the look of a traditional boxy station wagon. Building on the design of the Corvette-inspired 1954 Motorama show car, it had swept-back B-pillars, wrap-around rear glass, and a drop-down tailgate. The front shared design with the Bel Air, while the doors and rear quarter-panels were unique to the Nomad.
This Nomad was restored in two-tone silver and gray metallic. Exterior features include chrome brightwork, dual side mirrors, rocker moldings, and 17-inch Budnik wheels wrapped in newer staggered-width Sailun Atrezzo tires.
Interior features include later-model bucket seats, custom center console, aluminum dash trim, Vintage Air A/C, power windows, power steering, tilt steering column, leather-wrapped steering wheel, retro-look stereo, and Classic Instruments gauges. The odometer shows 1,999 miles, but the title reads mileage-exempt.
Under the hood is a chrome-laden 383ci stroker V-8 equipped with a Holley Sniper EFI system, MSD ignition, Sanderson headers, serpentine belt conversion kit, and electric fan with controller. A 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission and an Eaton limited-slip differential send power to the rear wheels. The chassis has been upgraded with Eaton drop leaf springs, two-inch drop spindles, dual exhaust system, and Wilwood power four-wheel disc brakes.
A shop manual, owner’s manual, restoration receipts, and a Chevrolet Nomad Association keychain will accompany the car.
As a 1956 commercial said, “No matter where you’re going, getting there is a treat when you drive Chevrolet, the best-looking, best-driving car on the road.”
It’s no wonder that even 70 years later, there is such a strong community of Nomad enthusiasts. The CNA now spans all 50 states as well as several international locations. If you act in time and place a competitive bid, there’s still time to make this custom Nomad your own and take it to the event this summer!
The auction for this 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad Custom Wagon ends Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 12:15 p.m. (PDT).
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery
