BF Exclusive: 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Restomod Project

• Seller: Kirk D ettloff
• Location: Huntington Beach, California
• Mileage: 0 Shown
• Chassis #: No Vin
• Title Status: Missing
• Engine: GM Crate 383 Stroker
• Transmission: GM 4L60E

This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air No Post, Sport Coupe, is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a build where the hard work is done. It has been stored in a Southern Californian garage, awaiting the day when it returns to its rightful place on our roads. Its solid body and tasty array of mechanical components mean that completing this project would be straightforward, although there is room for the next owner to personalize this ride. The owner is keen for the Bel Air to find a new home, listing it exclusively with us at Barn Finds.

The word “iconic” is used too freely in the classic world, with many cars not justifying that label. The ’57 Bel Air is an exception because it has remained a staple of the scene for decades. It is easy to see why it is so popular, with Chevrolet scoring a home run with its styling. It features the fins that were a hallmark of the era, but they remain restrained and tasteful compared to the car’s natural competition. The company also utilized some excellent trim materials, resulting in a vehicle that oozed class. There is probably no better paint shade to accentuate the looks than Matador Red, and we can see by the supplied photos that it is this color the owner planned on applying to its exterior. There is visible surface corrosion on some exterior surfaces, although everything is present to guarantee that this classic is rust-free before fresh paint is applied. Further good news is below the surface, with the beautiful body resting atop a shiny new Fatman Fabrications chassis. The winning bidder receives a range of new parts, including trim and essential body hardware like hinges and locks. The windshield and rear glass are missing, but sourcing replacements will be cheap and easy.

The owner confirms that this is a Restomod build, and the car’s specifications will bless it with performance that would have been the stuff of fantasy in 1957. The engine bay houses a GM 383 Stroker Crate Engine, with shifting duties tackled by a four-speed 4L60-E automatic transmission. The good news doesn’t stop there, with the V8’s power reaching the road via a Ford 9″ rear end. Stopping power is provided by 11″ Wilwood discs and calipers, with the remaining significant components list including QA1 Carerra shocks, an MSD ignition, and TCI Auto Max-Cool aluminum fluid pans. The only items that need to be on the shopping list are a radiator and driveshaft. Once bolted together, this Bel Air should be a potent but civilized package.

One area of this Bel Air that provides enormous scope for personalization is its interior. The winning bidder won’t receive any interior components or hardware, although this isn’t necessarily bad news. Items like seat frames and dash components are easily found, while several companies can supply complete trim kits for those considering a traditional look. However, some may find the lure of bucket seats and custom upholstery irresistible in this case. A project of this caliber could allow the next owner to let their imagination off the leash to create something truly eye-catching.

The 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is one of those rare examples of a car that became an almost instant classic. Regardless of their brand allegiances, they have remained a favorite among enthusiasts for decades. This one is an unfinished project, but virtually every piece of the puzzle is there to create a car that will draw crowds when the new owner packs away their tools for the final time. If a promising project candidate has been one of your dreams, this is your chance to transform that dream into reality.