We’re no strangers to low-mile classics at Barn Finds, although some cars are more extraordinary than others. This 1957 Chevrolet 210 Sedan is a perfect example, because if it is all that the seller claims, taking it home could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The seller claims that the 8,422 miles showing on its odometer is genuine, and if the history they provide is accurate and verifiable, that makes this classic genuinely special. They have listed the Chev here on Craigslist in Lakeland, Florida. They set their price at $36,500, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finders Tony P and Randy J for spotting this potentially amazing survivor.
The seller confirms that this ’57 has a known history, although they don’t specify how much is documented, and how much is hearsay. The first owner purchased the car for Sunday trips to church, with the Chev spending its downtime hidden in a warm and dry garage. They sold it to a returning Vietnam veteran in 1973, and it is said that there was little change to the usage pattern or the care it received. The seller is its third owner, but it is unclear when they became its custodian. They state that the Harbor Blue paint is original, with the car never undergoing restoration or repairs. If this is accurate, it is impressive. There is a small scratch on one rear quarter panel that the seller hasn’t repaired to preserve its survivor status. There are a few minor chips on the rockers, but the paint holds an excellent shine. The underside shots seem to support the rust-free status, with nothing visible beyond a few spots of mild surface corrosion. The trim and glass are in as-new condition, but I did notice something that may undermine the originality claims. The wheels leave me slightly perplexed because they appear to be wider than those the car would have worn when it left the factory. I am happy to be corrected if I’m wrong, and I actually want to be because I would love to learn that this 210 is all that the seller claims.
The first owner didn’t spend a huge amount on mechanical upgrades when ordering this 210, teaming the 235ci six with a three-speed manual transmission. The engine produces 140hp and 210 ft/lbs of torque, with both figures considered respectable by the standards of the time. This is where the water becomes muddy, and when we must confront the mileage claim. The engine bay presents as spotlessly as the rest of the vehicle, with no evidence of long-term fluid leaks or other problems. The seller recently replaced the original radiator hoses with reproductions, utilizing the correct clamps for authenticity. They also added a new exhaust and period-correct whitewall tires. They state that the glovebox houses the Owner’s Manual and Dealership paperwork confirming the car’s specifications via the first owner’s special order. What isn’t mentioned is any form of documentation supporting the odometer reading. This is critical because it would be what separates this classic from similar ones that are currently for sale. The seller states that it runs and drives perfectly, with no mechanical shortcomings or vices.
The Chevrolet floormats are said to be the only additions to this classic’s unrestored interior. The condition is impressive, with no wear or upholstery splits. The dash and wheel are excellent, and the splashes of bright trim show no evidence of deterioration. The seller admits that some of the lighter cloth items exhibit mild age discoloration, but the back seat appears to have rarely seen occupants. Overall, this interior presents well enough to support the mileage claim. I don’t consider that to be iron-clad proof, although it represents a starting point from which to work.
It will be fascinating to gauge your opinions about this 1957 Chevrolet 210 Sedan, and whether you feel that it is all that the seller claims. If it is, it could be one of the great finds of 2024 that justifies the asking price. However, a lot depends on whether there is a paper trail that verifies its history. It also leaves us with a point to ponder. Part of its inherent value rests in the odometer reading, and every additional mile could potentially impact its long-term value. Therefore, there is a good chance that it could become a show car or a museum piece, rarely seeing active service. Do you agree?
Wow
I’ll see your WOW, and double it. A little math here, the guy and spinster sister( odd story there, I bet) had the car 16 years. There are 52 Sundays in a year, so 832 Sundays. If church was 2 miles away, 4 miles per Sunday comes out to about 3300 miles. So the vet didn’t put many on himself. I say it’s the real deal, spiffied up with a spray can, but it’s clearly the real deal.
That extra 1/4 window at the C-pillar is interesting. Is this a Town Sedan variant? Just asking.
All ’55-57 Chevy 4 door sedans had that 6-window look. There was a 4-door hardtop (“Sport Sedan” in Chevy marketingspeak) with a 4-window look (with the side windows up).
I think it’s just the difference between the hardtop and post cars. The hardtops had the wrap around rear window, and the cars with a post had the little c-pillar window.
This is as about as close to a “brand new” 57 Chevy as you can get. What makes me believe its original and not restored is, lets face it, not too many people would go nuts doing a meticulous restoration on a 4 door sedan 210 with a 6 and a stick. They probably would have made changes like paint the Vee white, etc. But I agree with all the above. WOW!!! I would be afraid to drive it, I wouldn’t want to ruin it. Its interesting that it was special ordered and nice that they have all the paperwork too.
Joining the WOW club. Interesting comment about the wheel width. The right side rear shot shows the right front tire is mighty thin which would indicate stock wheels. You don’t see these these cars without full wheel covers that often unless it’s a modified car where everything is bigger.
That is one gorgeous Chevy and very representative of what most of our parents drove back in the day. It’s a shame more of these 4 door cars were not saved. I have my doubts though about the asking price. Wonder what Hagerty would say.
Between sales the motor vehicle department usually documents the mileage, so that would help in proving the mileage claim. So would the company that insured it.it looks very rust free, minor surface rust from just sitting down south, unless it was always in a climate controlled environment? Remember the black ghost.
I didn’t realize the wheels were body color on outboard and black on inboard sides. 1957 was the first year for 14” wheels, and the only year the wheels had no vents around the perimeter. The wheels do appear to be wide, but really aren’t. When they have that deep of lip, tires have to be mounted from the reverse side, meaning the wheels need to be face down on the tire machine as the skinnier lip is on the inboard edge. It’s weird, I know, but I’ve always had an eye for factory wheels. In my adult years I spent 19 years selling tires after I retired from 21.5 years in the USAF.
Congratulations on your lengthy career with the USAF. It is quite an accomplishment. I hope that you enjoyed your experiences through the years. I made 10 years in the USAF. It was a great experience.
Congats to both. Put 20 years in USAF and then went into full time building and restoration of interesting cars. Still at it. Did a complete on one of these for long time cars friends.
I would not have expected to see greenish blue on the inside with that shade of exterior blue.
Doesn’t get much better then this. Exactly how I would have ordered a new one, right down to color. Just wish it were a 56. They will get the asking price, no question. Good for them for taking such good care of it over the years. Wonder how many other cars sat outside so this could be pampered?
There are problems with this tri five 210 car that will keep it from getting the asking price. 6 cylinders, 4 doors, 2 posts and 1 color. Fa la la la laa.
It is a nice car and a time machine but about 10K too high, even with the low miles.