The 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air remains one of the most iconic American classics from that decade and has been a strong market performer for many years. They have always been a target for enthusiasts, with some choosing faithful restoration or preservation while others follow the custom path. This ’57 falls into the last category and is a solid vehicle featuring a surprise under the hood. Its healthy big-block should provide impressive performance, while the upgraded brakes should bring proceedings to a safe stop. A previous owner transformed the car into a fire-breather, but there is now a chance for someone to place their mark on this beauty. The Bel Air is listed here on eBay in Tavares, Florida. Bidding sits below the reserve at $18,000, with time on the auction for those who find the car irresistible.
The ’57 Bel Air forms part of the range that has become colloquially known as the Tri-Five Series. It was the last of its breed, and many believe it is the best. The Sport Coupe and Convertible are among the most popular, although enthusiasts clamor for the Nomad. This Sport Coupe is a 1970s custom build that spent over thirty years hidden in a New England barn. The seller dragged it from hiding and returned it to active service. Its Gold paint exhibits a fair range of marks and imperfections, but its shine leaves it presentable for those seeking the survivor look. However, the car’s lack of apparent rust and straight panels makes it an ideal candidate for a straightforward cosmetic refresh. The trim looks surprisingly good, especially considering the Bel Air’s history. The glass is free from significant issues, and the Rally wheels hint that there is more to this classic than meets the eye.
Chevrolet offered 1957 Bel Air buyers a wide range of engines to power their new purchase. The most powerful and desirable was the 283ci “Fuelie” that placed 283hp and 290 ft/lbs of torque under the driver’s right foot. It allowed the Chev to scorch the ¼-mile in 15.5 seconds, which was mighty impressive in 1957. However, that car would be left eating this one’s dust. The seller states the big-block under this hood is a 427ci V8 of 1969 vintage. The casting numbers and stamps confirm it is the L71 version, meaning it churns out 435hp and 460 ft/lbs of torque. The power feeds to a Pontiac 10-bolt rear end via a four-speed Muncie transmission. Forget the 15-second mark because this baby should comfortably drop into 14-second territory. The seller recently added a power front disc brake conversion, which is a sensible upgrade for a car with so much power. Potential buyers can consider it a turnkey proposition. The seller says it runs and drives incredibly well, a claim I find easily believable.
The custom touches continue inside this Bel Air, with the creator installing an interior from an early Pontiac. The seller states that it fits well, and that seems accurate. The upholstered surfaces and carpet are excellent, and the dash looks clean. Some minor details require attention, including locating a center for the sports wheel. However, the work could happen at the new owner’s leisure because the interior is serviceable.
I typically prefer unmolested classics, but I always respect a well-executed custom build. That description is appropriate for this 1957 Bel Air Sport Coupe, and its performance would be far better than its creators envisaged when it rolled off the line. Placing a value on any custom car is challenging, but the twenty-four bids submitted confirm plenty of people want this car. Do you fall into that category, or would another vehicle meet your needs?
Drive it
I luv the rat motor to push this lead sled down the road.
Color is growing on me too!
GLWS!
It’s not a lead sled..
Could be, as far as I know, they called them lead sleds back in the day because they used lead in the body work instead of Bondo, that’s where the term comes from, it’s not a type of car, although slammed early 50’s (fat fendered) American cars generally get the title by default.
The 70’s. Back when a car like this was $3000. And the paint job was brand new.
Under the hood could sure need some work!
ill have a friend in florida check it out ..
Throw on a set of vintage mag wheels and air cleaner for something which would be contemporary to the late-60’s to early 70’s, then drive it. Leave it as a representation of the way cars were, not many are left in that form.
Steve R
I agree. Change the air cleaner and clean up the engine compartment a little bit and drive it!
I like Rally wheels. but not here. Nice car.
This is the one everyone wanted in the 70s and 80s. Everything you need and nothing you don’t. A “Gold” Chevy you can get your head around.
Never understood the popularity of 55,56 and 57 Chevrolet. 57 rear fenders were so similar to 57 Chrysler. But love classy name Bel Air! The gold color and PRICE, definitely belong in Bel Air, but unfortunately I am down and out and definitely NOT a fresh Prince! 😉
Am I missing something like the gun sights?
Lot of people did that back in the day,also Chevrolet script removed and holes filled
I put a 348 in a 56 when I was a kid. Had to move the steering box to make it fit. Wonder how the 427 fit?
Did a few of these Just dent firewall for clearance and change motor mounts to side or hurst front saddle. They definitely need much better breaking needed to go to 4-wheel disc on mine with 500 Hp small block. fun to drive will break tires loose at 50 MPH.
L71 427 was equipped with a tripower. This engine may have left the factory with 3 two barrels, if so, they’re gone, and the 435hp rating no longer applies.
This is a 1957 210 model dressed up in Bel Air trim. Look at the VIN!!
If you have 20K or so to spend on a car, and some mechanical inclination, this wouldn’t be a bad way to go.
I’m a bit iconoclastic, so I’m all about a ‘57 Plymouth or Chrysler, but this is a pretty sweet looking Chevy. I don’t mind the rally wheels, but I could see it with deep dish reversibles on the back and no trim rings on those front rallys. Dig the color. Hope it’s as decent as it is cool.