Vehicle Description
Nobody can argue the timeless appeal of the 1957 Chevrolet. Cars
like this lovely Bel Air hardtop are on just about every
enthusiast's wish list, and despite huge production numbers, demand
still outstrips supply. With a smooth-running 283 and a PowerGlide,
this one is great on the road, and thanks to one of the most
reliable powerplants on earth, it's still as livable and useful as
your daily driver. Given the choice, who wouldn't rather cruise in
a bright red Bel Air?
Matador Red is the color most folks imagine when they hear the
words "1957 Chevy." Nicely finished very recently, it presents very
nicely, with a brilliant shine to the paint and excellent
detailing. The steel underneath is solid, with good panel gaps and
alignment, and no signs of massive panel repairs. In fact, the
shiny paint shows off exceptionally straight bodywork, as you can
see in the reflections. Chrome, and there's a lot of it on a '57
Bel Air, is excellent throughout, from the massive front bumper to
the tips of the rear tailfins. The same goes for the stainless
trim, especially along the sides, where it has been nicely polished
and still shines like chrome. Event those big anodized aluminum
panels that were exclusive to the Bel Air models have been properly
restored, which everyone knows costs a fortune. The only notable
change from stock specs is a light tint on the windows that's a
little darker than original but looks fantastic.
A handsome black and gray interior was installed at the same time
the rest of the car was restored, and shows as well as the paint
and bodywork. Using the same patterns as the original, the uniquely
'50s design is still cool and stylish, and fits the car much better
than any modern buckets and ultraleather might. The wide front
bench is comfortable, and the gray inserts help break up the
largely monochromatic look. The dash is bright red, like the body,
and the gauges are a beautiful design study of 1950 General Motors,
with everything arranged in a neat pod ahead of the driver and
framed by a thin-rimmed steering wheel with a horn ring. The
original radio remains in the dash, which is a pleasant surprise,
and the carpets are in excellent condition, and will likely remain
that way for a long time thanks to the tinted windows that will
help prevent fading. The trunk is finished accurately with a rubber
mat, full-sized spare, and a complete jack assembly.
Pop the hood and you'll find a freshly rebuilt 283 cubic inch V8
sporting a coat of Chevy Orange paint, its original air cleaner,
and matching stamped steel valve covers. All the factory components
are still present and accounted for, including the generator (with
integral power steering pump), wiper motor, and master cylinder,
all items that are usually "upgraded" during a renovation. Turn the
key and it springs to life with a crisp burble from the dual
exhaust system. The chassis is beautifully finished, with correct
satin black on the frame and suspension components, new shocks, and
red oxide floors as a background. The 2-speed PowerGlide automatic
transmission powers the original rear end, and this '57 feels quick
around town but settles down on the highway for easy cruising.
Original steel wheels and stock hubcaps look right and sit on
recent G78-14 whitewalls that add an authentic look.
'57 Chevys are always in demand, and this one has the right
combination of authenticity, colors, and a high-quality restoration
to make it an excellent investment. Call today!