Some classics are a genuine surprise packet, and such is the case with this 1957 Chevrolet 150 2-Door Sedan. This seemingly mild-mannered family Sedan is a tidy vehicle that wears most of its original paint. However, closer scrutiny reveals subtle badges confirming that there is more to this classic than meets the eye. Its engine bay houses the range-topping 283ci “Fuelie” V8 that makes it a genuine sleeper. The seller has listed the 150 here on eBay in Raymond, Mississippi. A solitary bid of $25,000 has pushed the car beyond the reserve, meaning that a new home beckons for this turnkey classic.
Chevrolet’s Tri-Five range has been a staple of the classic scene for decades, although the initial focus was on the ’57 Bel Air. However, enthusiasts have diversified, warmly embracing the rest of the vehicles within the range. This 1957 150 2-Door Sedan is a prime example, and it appears to carry the hallmarks of a survivor. The first owner ordered the car in a combination of Surf Green and India Ivory, with the seller claiming that most of the existing paint is original. They don’t indicate what areas may have received touch-ups or repairs, but it undoubtedly makes a positive first impression. The exterior shines nicely, with no visible significant flaws, defects, or evidence of fading. The panels are as straight as an arrow, with the seller confirming that this is a “no-hits” body that has never been dismantled. They don’t mention rust, and I can’t spot any emerging problems. The glass is clear, and the chrome trim is new. However, the subtle badges on the rear quarter panels confirm that there is more to this classic than meets the eye.
Buyers ordering a new 150 in 1957 received the company’s venerable 235ci Blue Flame six as standard equipment. Generating 140hp and 210 ft/lbs of torque, it provided performance that satisfied many buyers seeking affordable and practical family transport. However, the company catered to those seeking more, and it appears that the first owner pushed out the boat with this classic. The engine bay houses a 283ci “Fuelie” V8, with the engine block suffix confirming that it is the range-topping variant that churns out 283hp and 290 ft/lbs of torque. Feeding the power to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission produced a car that could storm the ¼-mile in 15.6 seconds. Keeping the pedal to the metal would see the needle hit 122mph, making this a genuinely fast vehicle. The only question mark hanging over this classic concerns originality. The seller doesn’t specifically say that this is a genuine Fuelie, nor do they indicate that it is a mechanically upgraded vehicle. That has a bearing on its potential value and is something that I would clarify before submitting a bid. The seller states that the engine and fuel injection system both recently received rebuilds by specialists, leaving the car in excellent mechanical health. The fuel tank is new, as are the brakes. It has no further needs and is a turnkey proposition for the winning bidder.
The 150 was the entry-level model within the Tri-Five range, which is reflected by this classic’s interior. The car doesn’t feature carpet, a radio, or a clock. However, it presents beautifully following a recent retrim in Black and White Cobblestone cloth and vinyl. The process included a new rear parcel tray and rubber floor mats, but the headliner and windlace are original. The wheel and painted surfaces are in excellent condition for their age, guaranteeing that this Chevy should receive positive comments wherever it goes.
This 1957 Chevrolet 150 2-Door Sedan is a classic that hides its light under a bushel. The exterior provides few clues about its performance potential, making it ideal for enthusiasts seeking a sleeper to park in their garage. The auction action has, to be polite, been subdued. However, the listing’s viewing and Watch List figures suggest that it could intensify as the end draws near. That begs the question of a potential price when the hammer falls. Recent successful sales suggest that a figure above $40,000 is achievable if this is a genuine factory Fuelie. A higher figure is possible, although the waters become muddy if the existing engine is a later addition. The seller seems approachable and might be willing to answer questions to provide clarity. If you received a positive reply to that query, would you be tempted to drop a bid on this classic?
If this is real, it’s a very cool car and a hell of a good buy at the current bid.
Absent the original window sticker or a built sheet, convincing people this is an original, fuel injected One Fifty will be a challenge. The seller didn’t provide a full VIN, so we can’t even determine if it was originally equipped with a V8.
There is also green overspray on the VIN tag, windlace in several spots and what appears to be the rubber bumpers for both doors.
Steve R
VIN tag is in one of the pics. Does not start with a V …..
VIN Tage shown on Ebay listing shows “A57” which translates to a 6 cylinder series 150. Also, fueling had the “Fuel Injection” script on the front fenders.
Monroney stickers were still another year away (`58) when this was built.
I believe the fuel injected badge is in the wrong location. I’ve seen 2 fuel injected ’57 Chevys through the years, both had the FI badge on the front fenders.
El air and 210 models were on the front fenders. 150’s were in the rear.
Not the 150’s
CCFisher, It’s got a Chevrolet Script with NO V under it on the Hood. It also has the original 6 banger Radiator just moved inboard. the V on the Trunk has either been added or the trunk lid is a replacement. VIN Tag tells the Story. Easy stuff to pick out if you know what to look for. Even the NEW Rubber healight gaskets are on Inside-out. The Thin side goes out, not the Thick side. 50% of the guys in the last 10-15 years make the same mistake.They didn’t grow up in the 1950’s and 60’s and are not a true Gearhead like us Older guys.
Craig, did you have a white HT back in the day, in San Jose?
Also, theres no “V” under the Chevrolet script on the hood. There is one however on the trunk. You would have to look closely to see if there were ever holes for it. That being said, its a cool car even if it turns out to not be original. Id have a blast listening to that 283 Fulie and rowing that 3 speed shifter.
Great combination, sure to sell for a lot more as it is a bargain at this price.
Beware – the newer VIN tag is glued on – should be “star” tag riveted on (see the indentations on the tag). Likely a base 150 with an engine upgrade – would be a bargain at $25k. Nice restoration and driver – great for shows (no one will have one like it). Forget about trying to authenticate this car.
The VIN tag on this car appears to be correctly installed. In 57 the VIN tags were spot welded to the car. Rosette rivets were not used by Chevrolet until 1965.
Chevrolet didn’t even rivet the tags on on 53-early 60 Corvettes, they were just attached to the hinge pillar with two Phillips head screws. During the 60 model year the tag was moved to the steering column and was then attached with two spot welds.
Nice `57. A cold beer says this left the factory with the 235 six and a 3 on the tree. I think there are more fuelie `57s now than Chevy built that year.
](eye roll)
I believe the fuel injected badge is in the wrong location. I’ve seen 2 fuel injected ’57 Chevys through the years, both had the FI badge on the front fenders.
Rebuilt a lot of these fulie units in my time. Expensive to do and hard to find person to do properly. Worked excellent for about 2 years then needed work again. Most ended up in the trunk or garage shelf and replace with carb. The fulie made this car come to life and fun to drive.
Hubba-hubba!
I do know the BelAir had the fuel injection badges on the front fenders, but this is the first 150 I have seen with injection. Our one experience with a new FI 1957 Bel Air was not enjoyable, despite it being a beautiful black hardtop. It grieves me to see my cohorts passing and with that the primacy of the 55-57 Chevrolets. But time waits for no one and just as my Father could tell an Oakland from a Pontiac my eye for postwar cars will become obsolete. I would add a Latin phrase here but my education lacked that facility. Like most commenters, I would need some serious documentation before valuing this more than a standard 57.
The rear fenders seem like an odd place to put the fuel injection badge. I’m with the others who doubt that this is even a factory B8 car, let alone one with FI. However, I would like to drive this beauty.
The fuel injection logo on the 150 is correct on the back fenders. I’m not certain if the Bel Aire had them in that location or not.
If this thing is an original factory fueler, it is beyond cool. Even if it isn’t original, it is still pretty cool. I would really want to see the car up close and personal, as well as have a long talk with the owner prior to pulling the trigger on it. I’m having a hard time believing that the paint is original. If it is, then someone really loved this car from its birth. It’s also impressive that whoever redid the interior was true the factory trimmings. I may very well do a little deeper dive on this beauty, (even though at 75 I need another car like I need a hole in the head, and the fact that my wife would most certainly take exception to my purchasing another toy car.)
Deluxe heater controls inside but heater delete under hood. No pictures under side showing floors etc. My money is on a clone
john mccue, The heater controls are a Standard, NOT a Deluxe with the 4 black skides. My first 57 had the Standard heater. One knob is fan for low med high and the other is a Pull for the defroster, the farther out you pull, the more it sends to the Windshield so a half pull will divert 50/50 air, up and down. I’m really wondering if this Fuelie is really a 283/283 Horse Power with solid lifters or a 283/250 HP with Hydraulic lifters?? also why NO Heater but the controls are there. No V on hood, V on trunk and NO Script. Headlight gaskets on backwards, 6 cyl radiator I can spot lots of things wrong. The fuel injection unit isn’t even from 1957 cuz the Top is Flat and not Ribbed like the Corvette valve covers. Nice Car but too many things needs fixed.
Craig, you are correct that the injection unit is not from ’57. The ’57 thru ’59 units had the ribbed plenum as you noted. The ’60 thru ’62 units had a smooth top plenum, and the ’63 thru ’65 units had had a larger plenum with a removable top. Still, it is in my opinion, a pretty cool car.
The “fuel injected” badge usually went on the front fenders, halfway down, near the front doors. Also, usually the car roof was painted the same colors as the rear fenders/trunk.
The car has been repainted as the “Chevrolet” script on the hood has been painted.
If I made a fulie out of a 6 cylinder car I’d have went for a 375 horse 327 outta a 63 Corvette! If you’re gonna be a bear…………..Be a GRIZZLY!
If you got it out of a ’63, it would be a 360 horse, the 375 horse wasn’t available until ’64. Nitpicky, but accurate.
Pretty grisly idea, all right…
i live in canada old car collector when i was checking car owners in olds albera can a clollector had 2 real 150 2dr fuelites for certain and parts for various 567s he had another originl fuelie do not remembert model he was no fool
“DOC” The Bel Air’s and the 210’s had the Fuel Injected Badges on the front fenders but the 150’s were always on the Rear Quarters. This car came with a 235 Six-Banger engine. the Hood wears a Chevrolet script and NO V under it. The 6 banger radiator was in front of the support brace and the hose was offset as this one. They simply moved it inboard with V-8 side mountings. V-8 radiators had a hose fitting in the center, this one is original to the Car. VIN tags always tell the story. IF it were a V-8 car, the VIN would start with VA meaning V-8 and 150 series….210’s were VB and Bel Airs were VC. The chrome V on the deck lid is correct but lacks the Chevrolet Script above it. Small details make a difference, but 90% of the Younger people just dont know what we OLDER GEARHEADS Know. I was Founder and 4 year President of San Jose Classice Chevy Club in 1977, I know a thing or two. lol
Craig: While it is apparent that you have a fair bit of knowledge concerning older Chevrolets, I have been messing around with these things for 6 decades, so I myself know a little bit about them. Correct me if I’m wrong, but your answer seems to indicate that the 150s had the script on the rear quarters only. That is not the case. The 150s had the F.I. script on the quarters, as well as the front fenders. I have had the opportunity to see an original “Widow Maker”, as well as a couple of verified correct 150 fuelers, and that was the case on all three. I am not questioning your knowledge, simply clarifying.
oldrodder, My comment was directed at the placement of the Fuel Injection Badge on the 150 being placed on the tailfin and not the front fenders as the 210’s & Bel Air’s. 150 had a Chevrolet script on the front fenders back towards the Doors and No Fuel Injection Badge there. Why would Chevrolet place TWO Badges on the same side of the Car? I’m not familiar with a “Widow Maker” of which you speak. I am about the Black Widow race car which has the correct placement Badges. Crossed Flags on the rear of the Tail Fin and the Chevrolet scripts on the front fenders…. Here is a Link to see a short video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=5iCoZ5fSndo
Hey Craig it is GREAT to see you are still around
Beautiful car.
Fascinating comments relative to the thorough product knowledge offered by many of you.
How do you close either door from the inside with window up – with no armrest or strap present?
JoeNYWF64, Closing the door would require just grabbing the Door handle and pulling it closed. Somebody tried TOO HARD trying to make a 150 Race Car with Fuel Injection. The Real Black Widows were all made with the 150 Business Coupe’s which had NO Back Seats, No roll down rear windows, and No Sunvisors or maybe door Armrests. Radio Delete, Clock delete, Heater delete. This car oviously had those items but in trying to make it something it’s not, they just didn’t know enought to do it correctly. I agree it’s a very cool car and I would even like it. but I’d change thing and do it Right. Flip the headlight gaskets indide out to be correct. is a small thing, but it JUMPS OUT at me as soon as I see the Car.
Just read that the armrest was optional – ridiculous that a strap was not provided – PULLING on the door handle on a 2 door is not a capital idea. lol
Rbig18: You are half right. Bei Aires and 210s had them on the front fenders only, but 150s had them on the front fenders as well as on the quarters.
Not saying you are wrong but all the so called legit 150 fuelies I could find including barret Jackson etc had the fi flags on the back and a Chevrolet insignia on the front fenders.
If by the “Chevrolet insignia” you mean the crossed flags, that is correct and it says”fuel injection” below. I am not going to argue with you about this so you are free to believe what you will.
Well by the responses below it appears I was correct. Flags and fuel injection in the back and just the Chevrolet lettering on the front. The internet kind of proved that in the research I mentioned. I was truly interested in getting the correct answer and not arguing.
People, please read all the other comments first. And also please learn how to Google!!
1. The VIN tag on the car (which is shown in one of the pictures in the auction) confirms it was born as a 6-cylinder car. So it did not come with the fuel injected 283. There is no doubt about that. This has already been posted 3 or 4 times above.
2. Even though they did not come on this car, the fuel injection flags and the script beneath it ARE in the correct location for a 150. Both pieces came on the front fenders on a Bel Air or a 210. But NOTHING related to the fuel injection badging came on the front fenders of a 150. ALL 150’s had “Chevrolet” scripts on the fenders, regardless of what engine they came with.
Don’t believe me? Just Google ” 1957 chevy 150 fuel injection pictures “. Then look at any of the dozens of photos. And look at this video of a nice restored car: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXgW2jm_Hj4
3. The paint scheme is correct for a 2-toned 1957 150. Their roofs were the same color as the front end. They were NOT 2-toned like a 55 Belair where the roof matched the decklid. Again, just look at all the pictures online.
Cheers!
I stand corrected regarding the fuel injection tags being on both the front fenders, as well as the quarters on a ’57 150. You are absolutely correct that the insignia on the front fenders was just the “Chevrolet” script. (Foggy memory, one of the pitfalls of getting old I’m afraid) What’s odd is that even as I wrote that, I remember thinking “wonder why Chevrolet put the fuel injection script in two places?” I clearly mis-spoke and for that, I apologize.
Absolutely a beautiful car, and has already been mentioned the VIN tag will tell you everything.
Charles Jenkins, As I’ve poster 2-3 times and others have posted ONLY 150’s had the Crossed Flags and Fuel Injection badge on the REAR Quarters ONLY, and not on the front fenders. The front fenders had a Chevrolet script. Link to pictures of correct car. https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/820058336431503/?_rdr
Sold with a high bid of $42,100.
Steve R
Definitely a cool car, and fairly well done for a clone, but the final price seems a bit exorbitant to me. Must have been worth that figure to someone. I hope that they enjoy the heck out of it.