Beach Hop Feature: Grant’s 1956 Chevy Wagon

Beach Hop always delivers no shortage of standout machines, but some cars manage to strike the perfect balance between classic style and real‑world drivability. One that caught our eye this year was Grant’s beautifully presented 1956 Chevrolet wagon, chatted about with Mag & Turbo Operations Manager “Toots” during the event.

While two‑door coupes and hardtops often steal the spotlight, Grant’s Chevy wagon proves that practicality can still look seriously cool. The wagon layout makes it easier to live with, especially when cruising with passengers, while still carrying all the unmistakable ’50s American presence that Beach Hop is known for.

Underneath, the Chevy has been set up to drive like a modern car rather than a temperamental classic. With a big‑block engine and overdrive, it’s built for comfortable cruising and long weekends on the road – a smart move given today’s fuel prices. It’s the kind of build that lets you enjoy the event instead of worrying about getting there.

Grant and his family didn’t build the car from scratch, but chose it because it already ticked the boxes: great looks, modern drivability, and the ability to add their own subtle touches over time. For Grant, the best part is simple – the smiles it puts on people’s faces and the excitement it brings to every weekend drive.

Beach Hop has become a huge part of Grant’s life, with this being his 18th event. That sense of community, shared passion, and iconic Kiwi car culture is exactly what Mag & Turbo aims to capture.