I would never insult the intelligence of our readers by describing this 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible as a genuine barn find. However, I felt it was worth close examination for two crucial reasons. The first is that it is one of the most stunningly beautiful restorations you could ever wish for. More importantly, we have readers who cannot undertake a project build. They crave a turnkey classic and are often willing to pay for the privilege. And pay they will, for the Convertible that is listed here on eBay in Carmel, Indiana. The seller set a BIN of $130,000, although they will entertain offers.
Choosing where to start with this Bel Air is challenging because there is much to like and appreciate. The seller indicates it underwent a meticulous frame-off restoration where no aspect of the car escaped the owner’s attention. The panels were returned to a rust-free state and massaged to perfection before the stunning coat of Matador Red was applied. This is another example of an older classic where the word “perfect” is difficult to avoid. An in-person inspection will undoubtedly reveal a flaw somewhere, but none are visible in the supplied images. The beauty of this Convertible is more than skin-deep because the underside shots show an immaculately detailed frame and floors coated in the correct red oxide. The Bel Air features a White soft-top that would contrast the Red exterior, with the seller describing it as in excellent condition. One interesting feature of this Bel Air is the Continental kit, but it could be rated as overkill. Most owners chose these to free up valuable trunk space usually occupied by a spare wheel. However, opening the trunk reveals a second spare! The trim looks flawless, with the dual antennas adding to the classy appearance. One desirable feature is the dual factory spotlights. Finding one on the driver’s side is not uncommon, but one on each side is considerably more unusual. The glass is excellent, and the wide whitewalls add the perfect finishing touch.
One of the most notable changes to the Bel Air range occurred in 1957, with Chevrolet adding the 283ci V8 to the engine range. That is what hides below the hood of this Convertible, with the original owner ticking the boxes beside the two-speed Powerglide transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes. It is unclear which version of the 283 we’re looking at because the seller provides no information. The driver will have at least 185hp and 225 ft/lbs of torque at their disposal, although I believe this could be the “Super Turbo-Fire” version delivering 220hp and 300 ft/lbs. Whatever the truth, both engines provide excellent performance for their time, while the rest of the mechanical components should deliver a relaxed driving experience. The engine bay is spotless, and it doesn’t flatter to deceive. The seller states the car runs and drives extremely well, making it a turnkey proposition for its new owner.
If the exterior serves up helpings of stunning presentation, the interior doesn’t let the side down. There is slight stretching on the front seatcover, but that is the only potential fault worth mentioning. The Red and Silver upholstered surfaces show no signs of abuse or physical damage, and the Gray carpet is free from wear and stains. The painted steel is flawless, and the only visible aftermarket addition is a retro-style stereo. The original owner focused on comfort, equipping this Bel Air with ice-cold air conditioning and power windows.
Describing this 1957 Bel Air Convertible as “cheap” is inappropriate, but it is a stunning car that seems to need nothing. The ’57 Bel Air has been a staple of the classic market for decades, and it is one of the few vehicles that could potentially remain in that league forever. This car’s price is at the top end of the market, but its condition and factory options could justify that figure to the right person. Do you fit that mold? I wish you good luck if you do and choose to pursue it further. I’m sure I’m not alone in hoping you will provide some feedback if you become this Convertible’s new owner.
Meh, I’m one of the 17 people in the world that never cared for the ’57 Chevy. One can’t deny what a beautiful job they did, but give me a ’56 any day.
Yes give me a ’56 any day of the week and twice on Sunday even though this ’57 is very beautiful.
I’m with you Howard. Am I one of 17 or does that bring the tally to 18?
No fan of continental kits but this is a beautiful car.
Glen Quagmire’s car…Gigity
HA! Good one,
Howard, I agree. So common, my mom knew what a `57 Chevy was, and she was no car nut! These have become cliches, and I normally glance right past them. IMHO, these were NOT GM’s best design of 1957!
Had a white(Imperial Ivory) ’57 with red/silver interior. Never wanted for girls!
A fine looking automobile this is. In great splendor it captures the eye of those who see it. I’ve owned a 57 Bel Aire 2 door hardtop, but not a convertible. This car is the epitome of beauty in American iron. How the prices have soared since my youth making these beauties unobtainable for the likes of me. Yet I look on with great admiration at all the beautiful lines sculpted to perfection and glistening in the beautiful red paint and perfect chrome lined curves that sets these cars apart from all other entries. She deserves the best of care in her old age, like a towering castle overlooking the treacherous sea. Let her live on in great pride and let all others be jealous of her high standing in automotive glory.
God Bless america
Attractive but also a bit “overdone”.
Overdone is an excellent point as it’s unlikely this car has been truly restored. It’s resale red and so overloaded with RPOs it’s difficult to believe the car rolled of the line with them all. The workmanship looks excellent but the details are lacking. The seller doesn’t disclose the VIN and or display an image of the cowl tag. For the $130k ask there should be much more information.
Not a big fan of fender skirts or continental kits , but this Chevy is sure a beauty. In my opinion, the ’57 chevy is on the short list of the greatest cars of all time. Not the best, but the greatest. Everything a car did this one did well. And it exemplifies one of everyone’s favorite eras.
this one is impeccable! I would love to own it, buy Mr would be afraid to drive it and get it dirty or chipped! I do appreciate seeing non barn finds as well in these newsletters! Thanks to all the contributing authors!
I have the exact same car red and all, my
car has the 283 Fuelie with the Pg trans
I drive it in the summer on nice days and
It still looks good after being restored in
2001, paint still shines well I driven it over
15,000 miles in those past years thay are
built to drive and enjoy.
Damn typos, small keyboards, and fat fingers!
Splendid!
FULL OPTIONED, laser straight. I can’t afford it but it would have been nice had I found it 35 years ago when I bought my similarly equipped red 59 convertible. Beautiful car hands down.
Too much red IMHO. It’s overwhelming. And I agree with a couple other commenters: The 56 is better -looking. I had a’56 fully loaded convertible, aqua and white. A stunning beauty.
Wow, absolutely gorgeous.
Nice car. If I had a choice of the Tri Five Chevy’s, I’d go with the 55 but, not a drop top. I go for the 55 Nomad in which my wife would flip out. 3 chevy’s and, no more. I’m at my limit of 3 chevy’s
25 years ago every car show was filled with tri 5 Chevrolets. Today I seldom see one. At the time the prices were crazy high. But I believe that market has softened. This is a beautiful example for someone that likes all of the add on.
BIMMER…”OVER DONE” how. way more than my pocket could bare but VERY WELL done sir.
Beautiful car! $130k sounds high, especially to an old man like me, but you could easily spend that much doing your own restoration. Someone certainly opened up their wallet to restore this beauty. I wish I could afford it. That would be a great anniversary gift for a good wife!
I’ve had many chevys..no 57s tho…never cared much for those fins, liked the 55s a lot, hardtops of course. Had a beautiful 54 convert..Turk and white..best one I ever drove…twin pipes.
Beautiful 57