Listed on eBay, this 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is being sold as a four-door project roller, offering a starting point for someone who’s ready to take on a true restoration or custom build. The seller describes it as a “great project or hot rod”, noting that the car comes with a clean title and an overall solid body despite its long-dormant state. Thanks for the tip Mitchell G.!
The photos show what you’d expect from a decades-old Bel Air that’s been sitting, plenty of flash rust on the exposed metal, a largely stripped or damaged interior, and no engine or transmission in place. The car appears to be mostly complete in structure, though it’s definitely a project that will require a fair amount of effort before it sees the road again.
According to the ad, this 1957 Chevy is being sold as-is, but it’s easy to see the appeal. The ’57 Bel Air remains one of the most iconic shapes in American automotive history, and even four-door versions have become increasingly sought after by enthusiasts looking for an affordable way into the Tri-Five Chevy world.
The seller invites potential buyers to “MAKE OFFER!”, suggesting there’s room for discussion on the final price. With a clean title already in hand, it could make an appealing candidate for someone who wants to build a hot rod, a patina-style driver, or even use it for parts to help complete another project.
While the ad doesn’t mention specific parts included beyond the rolling chassis, the car’s solid body and recognizable styling still give it value for the right buyer. Restoration projects like this aren’t for everyone, but for those with the skills, or the dream, it’s a chance to bring a classic American icon back to life one piece at a time.
Would you take on this 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air as a full restoration, or would it serve as the foundation for your next custom build?
Nobody is going to restore this. There are clean, driver-quality 4-door tri-five sedans out there for under $20K. I’d say it would make a good parts car, but I think it’s already been a parts car, and someone is just selling the carcass.
The days of restoring cars like this, in this condition are coming to an end, some people may like 4 doors 57’s, but like you said, decent examples make it cost prohibitive. Most of the people advocating for a car in this condition to be resurrected aren’t going to do it themselves, they want someone else to dig into their wallet to do so.
Steve R
Steve, I guess I will be the exception on this post. I actually agree with most comments regarding restoration and pricing in todays market. However, not everyone can pull a cool 20k out of their bank account for another 4 door already restored, or in better condition. The majority of the gearheads who are going to purchase this car, will access buddies and the grapevine for parts to put this car back together, at their own pace and availablility. The upside with this car is it does have a title, which saves the buyer a minor headache to deal with, and possible resale value.. even 4 doors are just about bought up or totally gone.
Where is it advertised?
eBay?
The seller lists Long Branch, NJ as the pickup point.
I’d be surprised if you could get a grand for it as a parts car. It’s not even the nice looking Sports Sedan hardtop version. Best offer should be be free to a good home.
Agreed with other comments that this was already a parts car. Maybe 500 dollar car at that!