The third generation Bel Air models were redesigned longer, lower, and heavier than their 1957 predecessors, and the first ever production Chevrolet big block V8, the 348 cu in (5.7 L), was now an option. Chevrolet's design for the year fared better than its other GM offerings, and lacked the overabundance of chrome found on Pontiacs, Oldsmobiles, Buicks and Cadillacs. The third generation Bel Air was only available for the 1958 model year, and was replaced by the Fourth Generation Chevrolet Bel Air.