I was once asked to compile a dream car list, but I could only choose one car from each decade. I struggled with some, but the 1950s was a no-brainer. It couldn’t be anything but a Matador Red 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible. Naturally, the listing for our feature car immediately caught my eye, and the closer I looked, the more I wished I could take it home. That isn’t going to happen, but you could be luckier than me. The Bel Air presents beautifully and is listed here on eBay in Charlotte, North Carolina. Bidding sits below the reserve at $60,300, with time remaining for you to make a play for this classic.

The 1957 model year marked the last of what became known as the Tri-Five Chevrolet range. Many people believe the cars from that year are the most attractive vehicles from the 1950s, and the ongoing popularity of the Bel Air in the classic market supports that. This Convertible presents superbly in Matador Red, with the seller believing it may have received a repaint before coming into their care. The paint shines nicely, with no significant flaws in it or the steel it covers. Rust could be a significant issue with these classics, but the supplied underside shots confirm it is rock-solid. The White soft-top fits as tight as a drum, with no evidence of physical damage or stains. One of the more attractive features of the ’57 Bel Air is the exterior bright trim, which isn’t as outlandish as found on some other vehicles from the era. This is in excellent condition, and the fender skirts accentuate this car’s low and sweeping lines. For me, the perfect finishing touch to the exterior is the spinner hubcaps.

The positive vibes continue when we examine this Bel Air’s interior. Substandard trim and upholstery are almost impossible to hide on any vehicle of this type, but the new owner can ride anywhere in this classic with the top down and their head held high. Its Code 683 combination of Red and Silver vinyl perfectly complements the exterior and is in fantastic condition. There is no evidence of wear or other issues, and the Black carpet sports Red mats for added protection. The painted surfaces are flawless, the bright trim shows no evidence of physical damage, and the dash houses its factory AM radio and clock.

This Bel Air should provide its new owner with a relaxed driving experience. The mechanical components comprise a 283ci V8, a two-speed Powerglide transmission, and power steering. The 283 produces 185hp and 275 ft/lbs of torque, making the Convertible an excellent open-road tourer that could happily cope with the hustle and bustle of city traffic. The seller is unsure whether this gem is numbers-matching, but they have always maintained it using NOS parts. The engine bay presents superbly, and this is a case where looks aren’t deceiving. The seller indicates the Bel Air runs and drives perfectly, making the idea of flying in and driving home look pretty tempting.

If circumstances were different, I would not hesitate to join the bidding war for this 1957 Bel Air Convertible. It presents beautifully and is the ideal weapon for enjoying the emerging warm weather. It has only received seven bids, which is far fewer than I would expect for a car of this caliber. You could add to that total as you strive to park it in your garage. I am available to perform chauffeur duties if you are successful. I wouldn’t even charge you for it. I’m that type of guy!