Riding on larger 14-inch tires, the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air was 2.5 inches longer and stood 1.5 inches lower than the previous year's model. Twin rocket shaped wind splits down the hood replaced the usual hood ornament. Modest (for the time) but still sharp, fins finished the posterior of this car. Bel Airs were available in seven different models, trimmed with anodized aluminum on the rear body side panels. Under the hood, Chevy owners could choose from the tried-and-true six, or 265cid V8, or up to half-a-dozen variations of the enlarged 283 cubic inch engine. Bel Airs were about options & accessories though, and Chevrolet offered a longlist. It has since been an American icon in automotive history, and one of the most desired Chevrolets to own the world over!
We are delighted to offer this 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible finished in desired Matador Red over code correct Red & Silver interior with matching White convertible top! This highly optioned example comes with all the desired looks and charm of a stock Bel Air but hides an upgraded drivetrain underneath its original exterior! Powered by a brand-new crate Edelbrock 350ci V8 fitted with an Edelbrock Performer EPS Series intake & carburetor (320hp/382 torque), Performer RPM aluminum heads, Keisler A41 4-speed electronic overdrive transmission, and original rear end upgraded with Richmond 3.55 gears and Eaton limited slip differential! Since installation, it is estimated at having just 1,300 miles on the drivetrain. Options include modern Vintage Air conditioning, ventilated power front disc brakes, power steering, rear fender skirts, rocker trim, tilt steering column with smaller diameter steering wheel, dual outside mirrors, dual exhaust, reverse lights, electric wipers, front/rear seatbelts, Custom Autosound AM/FM/Aux in the stock location, door handle paint guards, and so much more!
This car survives out of the Winnfield, LA since 2001 area before coming into a St. Louis collection in 2010. The body, chassis, and undercarriage all survive in outstanding condition due to southern history! The exterior paint was already refinished and continues to look excellent along with a brand-new top & boot cover! Since 2010, it received the newly installed drivetrain, all four steel wheels are new and matched in color, fitted with Coker Classic radial tires, and new stainless steel wheel covers with decorative spinners! Under the hood, you will see it nicely detailed with tons of chrome and Edelbrock Endurashine components everywhere you look! This includes the brake booster, master cylinder, alternator, a/c compressor with braided hoses, air cleaner, valve covers, power steering pump, billet belt pulleys, and Griffin aluminum radiator with trans cooler and overflow reservoir! This Bel Air Convertible runs down the road superbly! The air conditioner blows cold, the factory gauges are all functional including the clock.
The entire driveline is all brand new, and it rides the road simply outstanding! The power steering offers effortless lane management & parking maneuvering, and the upgraded front disc brakes offer confident stopping power! New wiring with updated fuse block, shocks, new front & rear sway bars, new u-joints, new wheel & axle bearings, new fuel tank & sending unit, new exhaust with Flowmaster mufflers & chrome tips, MSD ignition, fuel pump, starter, water pump, horns, and on & on!
If you have been looking for a car that fulfills the experience of driving a classic 1950's convertible, but needed the extra confidence of more modern components, this car should head straight to the top of your list! This Bel Air provides an outstanding opportunity for the astute collector and driver enthusiast! Restored from top to bottom, it needs nothing but a new owner! A host of parts receipts, service records, restoration history, owner's manual, extra keys, etc. are all included! Please feel free to call with additional questions. Thanks for looking! Act quickly!