Not unlike Chevy's cars of the day, the Cameo sported an eggcrate grille, wraparound front bumper, and a third more glass than the previous 3100 Series. The interior also was more car-like -- particularly the dashboard, which featured a fan-shaped speedometer and needle gauges, with a top finished in textured black to cut down on reflections.

Even standard models had two-tone upholstery: an "oak bark" pattern of woven plastic and rayon fabric that "breathed." Like other light-duty 1955s, the Cameo had a new frame, longer leaf springs, wider track, and a two-inch-shorter, 114-inch wheelbase.

The most notable mechanical improvement was Chevy's new 265-cid V-8, tuned to deliver 145 bhp-not as much as the car's, but significantly more than the old "Stovebolt" six. Still, the six had more horsepower than ever -- 123, up from 112 in 1954.

Either engine could be mated to any of five transmissions: three-speed, heavy-duty three-speed, three-speed with overdrive, four-speed, or Hydra-matic. Power steering and brakes were available, too.

A "Custom Cab" package, with standard or wraparound backlight, could replace the optional corner windows of the Advance-Design trucks. Interiors might be upgraded with foam-padded seats, chrome knobs, dual armrests, and sun visors.

A chromed grille, headlight bezels, bumpers and guards, hubcaps and hood ornament also were available. Stylish Cameos, painted in Bombay Ivory with red accents, carried most of the available brightwork and extras.