1957 Chevrolet Bel Air

Description

Cars like this 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible remain popular year after year, and it's easy to understand why. They're handsome, comfortable, reliable cruisers that pluck at a lot of people's heart strings. When most folks think of the '50s, this is the car they imagine.

This fabulous '57 Bel Air has been faithfully restored in correct Matador Red and it looks simply stunning. The iconic bodywork is well executed with tight gaps and signs of a substantial investment in time and effort to get the panels straight and ripple-free. The paint is almost impossibly deep and shiny thanks to quality prep & execution and if attracting attention is what you want, few cars can do it better. All the chrome has been re-plated, and given the costs of such work these days, it probably accounts for half the restoration costs. All the stainless was straightened and polished, and if there are any reproduction trim pieces on the car, they're indistinguishable from original. The gold anodized Chevrolet emblems front and rear, as well as the distinctive quarter panel inserts are all in very good condition. This Chevy is ready to show.

Inside, the lovely silver and red interior is the perfect contrast to the bright red body. Workmanship on the restoration is first-rate, and the materials look just right on this car. There are no wrinkles or misaligned seams, suggesting that someone took their time, and new foam underneath ensures your comfort. The dash and all the gauges have been restored as well, and the bright strip of trim that extends from end to end shows the correct finish and texture. The steering wheel is a smaller diameter aftermarket unit, but it's so beautifully crafted that you won't even notice without a stock one to compare it to. Fresh carpets are protected by bright red mats, and the car wears an unusual tan convertible top, power-actuated of course. The trunk is neatly detailed with a fresh mat, jack assembly, and a spare wheel that's been restored and awaits fresh rubber.

Power comes from a correct 283 cubic inch V8, which has been fully rebuilt and nestled into a nicely restored engine bay. Correct Chevy Orange paint has a nice period feel, and doesn't look super-shiny, which always makes a car seem over-restored. Inside there's a mild cam and a 4-barrel carb under the oversized air cleaner, and the combination generator/power steering pump is always a cool option. The engine spins a 2-speed Powerglide automatic driving the original rear end. The frame wears correct satin black paint and there's little evidence of previous accident damage and absolutely no rust issues. The dual exhaust system has a healthy rumble, but isn't overpowering, and it rides on a set of recent 215/75/14 Firestone whitewall radials mounted on the original wheels with spinner hubcaps.

Despite building record numbers of 1957 Chevys, they remain in demand today, and with this one bringing with it a pile of restoration receipts, you can definitely buy with confidence. A great opportunity to own an icon. Call today!