Well, this is probably the 4,317th 1957 Chevrolet that we’ve covered here on BF, and one may ask, “Why another?” Good question! My reason for reviewing this 69-year-old resident of Lexington, Kentucky, is its beautiful and super-clean condition. It has undergone a restoration and some enhancements and shows as being excellently maintained. Through it all, it has been in firm possession of a tasteful bearing. We have Pnuts to thank for this tip, and those with an interest will find this fine Five-Seven here on Facebook Marketplace, where it’s available for $38,500.
To state the obvious, this wagon is of the four-door variety, and while the two-door versions seem more popular these days, the Nomad in particular, many appreciate the convenience of four, even on a collectible. Trim-wise, this wagon appears to be a Bel Air Townsman, positioned beneath the Nomad, but above the Two-Ten and the entry-level One Fifty. The finish, which I believe is “Sierra Gold Iridiscent,” is hands-down my favorite for ’57, and topped with what looks like “Calypso Cream,” is the perfect contrasting combination. The finish, chrome, stainless trim, glass, stance, all of it, is just perfect. Even the underside images reveal a very clean and sound structure. The seller does state that the floor pans have been replaced. Note the wheels, I believe they are VN510 Draft Vintage pieces from American Racing. It’s a very modern look, and I would suggest a welcome departure from the overdone Chevrolet Rally Wheel or Cragar S/Ss, which so often adorn Tri-Five Chevies.
For power, this wagon is packin’ a first-year 220 gross HP, 283 CI V8 engine backed up by an automatic transmission. The seller claims that the engine is original and includes “A new milodone oil pan, a one-piece oil pan gasket, new cork valve cover gaskets, a new 7-blade fan, a new fan shroud, a new stainless fuel line from tank to new 57 fuel pump, and a correct line from pump to carb.” The automatic transmission that is backing up the small block is a Turbo-Hydramatic 700R4, a four-speed automatic overdrive unit, and a welcome swap for the original Powerglide. Looking around the engine compartment, I spy an upgraded dual circuit master cylinder – always a wise move!
The interior is decked out in what looks like original style two-tone upholstery. Every aspect of the interior shows like new; it’s brilliant in its cheerful 1950’s presentation – so much more alive than what we find in today’s cars. The hard parts wear the same two-tone paint combination as the exterior, and it ties the environment together perfectly. Even the way back, an area often subjected to more vigorous use, is holding up its end of the bargain.
So, see why I like this ’57 as much as I do? Its understated nature just leaps off the listing and really grabs your attention, but without hitting you over the head. The seller tells us that he’s owned this wonder wagon for fifteen years; my guess is that it will be difficult to part with such a fine specimen after so many years. Well, if this is the 4,318th 1957 Chevy we’ve covered, I’d say it was worth it; how about you?
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