This custom 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air known as "Wicked Bel" was
constructed through a complete ground-up build using new or
upgraded components throughout and is powered by a Bob
Panella-built 496ci engine producing nearly 600 ft/lbs of torque.
The engine was assembled beginning with a GM block fitted with
9.35:1 Howards forged pistons, Brodix fully polished BB2 cylinder
heads, a Bullet hydraulic roller camshaft, ISKY roller lifters and
a Borla Stack EFI induction system controlled by a Holley
management system. Fuel and ignition strategies were calibrated to
support reliable street operation while accommodating the airflow
capability of the stack injection system. The engine is backed by a
fully built 4L80E electronic 4-speed automatic transmission
configured with an electronic slap-stick shifter for manual
selection capability. The chassis is a Roadster Shop REVO Stage 3
platform engineered for increased structural rigidity and modern
suspension geometry. It is equipped with a Pro Iron Case 9-inch
posi-traction rear differential designed to manage the torque
output of the Panella engine. Suspension components include
adjustable coilovers at all four corners, heavy-duty sway bars and
rack & pinion power steering. Stopping power is provided by Wilwood
6-piston disc brakes sized for high thermal capacity. The
undercarriage was finished to the same level as the top side, with
fully coated and detailed surfaces, concealed wiring routing, and
integrated plumbing for fuel, braking,and electrical systems. The
exterior is finished in PPG Octane Red, applied following body
preparation that included panel alignment, gap adjustment and
bumper narrowing to achieve precise fitment. After application, the
PPG finish was fully sanded and buffed. Exterior trim components,
lighting assemblies and glass were installed new or restored, and
door, hood and decklid mechanisms were adjusted to proper
operational tolerances. The interior was completed by Ciadella
Interiors in Tempe, AZ, and features leather and suede adjustable
bucket seats, seat belts at all seating positions and a custom
center console containing concealed power window switches. Flooring
consists of Dynamat insulation beneath German wool carpeting for
thermal and acoustic control. Instrumentation is provided by Dakota
Digital Retrotech RTX gauges calibrated to the drivetrain,
displaying 20 miles since completion. Cabin comfort systems include
a Vintage Air climate-control system and an Infinite Reference
audio system that provides in-cabin sound reproduction with
integrated controls. The vehicle's electrical system was fully
updated with modern wiring, fuse distribution and harness routing,
and the cooling and exhaust systems were designed to meet the
operating requirements of the 496ci engine and electronic fuel
injection system. This vehicle earned First in Class at the 2024
Grand National Roadster Show, and the award is included with the
vehicle.
Vehicle Details
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
Listing ID:CC-2033244
Price:Auction Vehicle
Location:Scottsdale, Arizona
Year:1957
Make:Chevrolet
Model:Bel Air
Exterior Color:OCTANE RED
Interior Color:GRAY
Transmission:Automatic
Odometer:0
Stock Number:293952
VIN:VC570119141
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