Vehicle Description
1957 Chevrolet 150
Without question, the 1957 Chevy is one of America's most iconic
images. From being instantly recognized around the world to its top
ranking among diehard fans of GM's bowtie and general car
enthusiasts alike, this single model year has seen it all since
introduction. Its competition credentials were felt not only on the
quarter-mile, but also on the ovals-both dirt and paved. It's been
chopped, lowered, modified and lovingly restored. The '57 Chevy has
also been replicated countless times in die-cast and molded plastic
guises, ranging from 1/87 scale right up to 1/12th-even fiberglass
go-cart bodies have been produced in its image. And its picture has
hung on countless bedroom and garage walls.
On consignment from a gentleman who has had the car since 1987.
Soon after his purchase back then, the original engine was removed
and a circa 1962-63 327 V8 was installed. The car comes to us with
a custom interior, and some attached trimmings to have it appear as
a more costly Bel-Air.
Exterior
Cladded in all steel this car has patina throughout in the form of
dulling, some scraping, and some early signs of rust. It is draped
in black paint which seems a bit different on the hood in a lighter
shade, and more of a matte finish. Gaps are fair to poor, and trim
alignment is off in a few seams. Chrome is good, all around with
slight pitting and dulling. As noted the Bel Air badging and trim
spear have been added. 15-inch Keystone Classic polished wheels are
all around and are wrapped in 225/70R15 black walls.
Interior
A mixture of old and new with a rear bench that could be original
with some cracks in the vinyl on the upper portion. Dual newer high
back bucket seats covered in light gray with a power control seat
adjustment now sit where the former bench sat. Door panels go with
yet another horse of a different color and are covered with dark
blue surrounded with smooth vinyl panels. Alas gone is the
wonderful cobblestone pattern that originally graced the interior.
The driver's door handle is missing. Looking at the open door it
appears the original color was a teal. Looking up we note a gray
cloth headliner, and it has a few sags and tears. Black carpet
covers the floors. Dash is mostly original and a rally style
steering wheel has been installed.
Drivetrain
The original "blue flame" inline 6 cylinder has been replaced with
a larger 327ci V8. Headers now grace this engine, and it is topped
with 4-barrel Holley carburetor. A Muncie M22 4-speed manual pushes
power rearward to a 3.36 axle.
Undercarriage
Surface rust abounds underneath but all appears fairly sound
underneath. Floor pans and body hangers are surface rusted but
remain strong. Rear shock tower supports in angle iron (an accepted
fix) now support the rear shocks. A newer u-joint is seen on the
drive shaft. This car has drum brakes all around.
Drive-Ability
The car starts easily, and was fun to drive. It has nice
acceleration, and has a few rattles here and there. I was a bit
taken aback by the inconsistent surfaces inside, but all was
comfortable.
An older restoration, modified by the same owner over the years
since its purchase in 1987. It is a driver, but with some TLC it
could be a nice example of the 57 150 Chevrolet from the tri five
era.
VIN Decode
A570170398
A-1500 Series 150 Model
57-1957
O-Oakland, CA Assy Plant
170398-Sequential Unit Number
Trim Tag
STYLE 57 1211-150 2 Door Sedan
BODY 03921-Oakland Body #
TRIM 715-Silver Vinyl/Cobble Stone
PAINT 806A-Adobe Beige
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special
interest automobile showroom, featuring over 500 vehicles for sale
with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle
barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia
on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is
www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914.
Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the
vehicle in person.