Some enthusiasts will turn their backs on a promising four-door project candidate because they believe only two-door variants of some models are worth their attention. That is valid in some cases, but if that person has a young family, they could be making their life unnecessarily difficult. That’s where this 1957 Bel Air might fit into the equation. It runs and drives with the 283ci Tri-Power V8 under the hood promising a rapid classic motoring experience. It is listed here on Craigslist in Temecula, California, and could be yours for $14,500.
The indications are that this Bel Air is an older custom build. Its paint combination doesn’t appear on the ’57 Bel Air color chart but is interesting. It doesn’t seem to have any significant flaws or defects, so I wouldn’t rule out achieving a decent shine following a wet sand and buff. If this doesn’t prove the case, the buyer could perform a color change in the shade of their choice. The panels look straight, and there is no visible rust. The photos indicate there may have been previous floor repairs, but there is no evidence of existing problems. The glass looks good for a vehicle of this age, but some trim pieces require a trip to the platers or replacement as part of a top-end build. However, I would try polish first to avoid splashing unnecessary cash. The wheels look okay, but I don’t feel they suit this car’s character. Plenty of alternatives are available, including fitting a wider set of steelies with correct ’57 hubcaps as part of a sleeper look.
The Bel Air’s interior is missing some pieces, although they could be among the parts sitting in the trunk. The seats wear custom covers that do it no favors. A complete restoration is required, which could be one of the most expensive parts of the build. Trim kits are available to achieve a factory-fresh appearance, but these retail for approximately $2,100. If the buyer wants to stand out, they could opt for custom trim in the material and color of their choice. The world will be their oyster, and their imagination will be the only limiting factor. I generally prefer originality, but I respect a custom interior if it is executed well.
Chevrolet offered a selection of engines in the ’57 Bel Air, but it is unclear whether this 283ci powerplant is original. The Tri-Power setup isn’t, but depending on the engine’s specifications, it should churn out some pretty respectable horsepower figures. The other mechanical components include a two-speed Powerglide transmission and power steering. The seller emphasizes that although this car runs and drives, it is not roadworthy. The brakes work, but they don’t specify what is required before this beauty would be ready to return to active service. If the work is straightforward, I see no reason why the new owner couldn’t hit the road for some summer fun before tackling the build during the following cold months.
This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air could be considered a blank canvas for its new owner. Its lack of apparent rust means whipping its panels and paint into shape should be straightforward, while the Tri-Power V8 should provide excellent performance. This is a chance for someone to let their imagination off its leash to create something truly memorable. With enthusiasts having such varied views and tastes, it will be fascinating to see what path you would follow with this promising project. So, it’s over to you.
At least it’s the sexy pillarless version…
Awful color, but looks like a good solid project to tackle. Things like a decent color repaint, moderate lowering, complete interior redo, and wheel swap to something that enhances the looks would do wonders for this one.
I’d opt for steelies, a stock paint scheme and a stock interior. The 283 looks period-correct, but I’d keep the tri-power. You can’t really go back to Full Original, but I like the factory trimmings, so would just go that way and drive it.
Doesn’t seem like a bad price if the condition (i.e. rust) checks out.
2nd year for the Sports Sedan. Appear to have good bones, would redo the interior according to the data plat, along with the paint color. Mid 1960s’ “trips” was a big thing on the small block. The 327 guys went for a bigger or dual 4 barrels. Power steering pump driven off back of generator is original set up, so possibly could be original motor. asking price is not to far off, since currently not street able. I passed on a 57 Sports Sedan 6/3 that needed floors and inner and out rockers. Original ask was $10K and after 3 months seller was calling me asking $7K since he couldn’t move it. BTW that one had no front seat, besides the body rot.
Looking at the engine it could be the original, but it would of had a 2 barrel on it originally. The engine has the low compression 2 barrel heads on it.
A four door 57 Chevy hardtop is worth a second look. Not often seen. Could be a sweet ride.
Sure they are ! Just look through any old time junkyards across the country and you’ll find plenty of them with the front clips ,bumpers and drivetrains missing from people putting them on coupes 50 years ago ! lol
1956 was the first year GM came out with a 4 door hardtop. Chevy called them “Sports Sedan”, Oldsmobile called them “Holiday”, Cadillac used “deVille” memory fails me on Buick and Pontiac. I think around 59 or 60 Pontiac may have used “Vista”
The 1957 Sports Sedan, across 210 and Bel Air models, saw nearly 161,000 units come out of the factory. Not ultra rare by production numbers, but the survival rate is probably low. 3/2 with Pglide makes this a nice cruiser. Upgrade the brakes, heat and a/c and modernize the weak Gen and p/s to a bit more modern and off you go!
Not having pillars is a plus. Good bones for a project car
Awesome looking car. My favourite years for the Tri-Five Chevy are 1956 and 57. My favourite body stylings are 4 door hardtop and station wagon. Given its condition, I’d pay close to the asking price of around $15k.
cool car…i think the roof line on the sport sedan is more attractive than the 2dr. hardtop
Aside from the bumpers and lights, the trim is all stainless… A buffing wheel and fine compound should take care of that.