I know that as some models get older and certain parts become harder to obtain, that some cars must be sacrificed to allow others to survive. It doesn’t mean that I actually have to like the idea. This 1957 Chevrolet is listed for sale here on eBay. It is located in Saint Croix Falls, Wisconsin. With a BIN price of $1,200 the seller is under no illusions about this Chevy. He says that it comes with no title and is a parts car only.
This is a car that on the surface actually doesn’t look too bad. There are some obvious rot issues that can be seen in the first two photos, but for the unknowing things look quite promising. The majority of the external trim and chrome that is present looks to be in reasonable condition and the wheels don’t look too bad, although the left rear tire is leaking.
So this is where the problems start and it becomes evident why this car is classed as a parts only proposition. That’s an awful lot of rot there. This is a car that Fred Flintstone would covet and is simply not a viable restoration prospect. Having said that, once again there are parts in this shot that are suitable to be reused or refurbished, so all is not lost.
The seller has floor pieces and rockers that all look solid and will clean up quite well. It’s also worth remembering that the hood and trunk lid both appear to be in reasonable condition, along with the front wings, so for such a basic car we’re starting to assemble a treasure trove of bits.
This is a Chevy that is destined to make its last trip in a very short time. Even though it is about to head to its final resting place it still has something to give, as it has been doing for the last 61 years. To my eye the sum of the parts make this old girl worth the asking price. I know that this car’s destiny is for the greater good of those cars that remain behind, but it doesn’t make me like its fate any more. For me probably the best part of looking at the photos of this car is the fact that while she may be a tired and rusty old hulk of a car, at least she’s a clean and tidy old hulk. Seeing her go with a bit of dignity somehow makes it just that bit easier.
Probably the last car on the planet that there is a shortage of parts for would be a 1957 Chevy. Almost every solitary piece is made in reproduction by multiple companies including the entire body shell. If this is a parts car, the undercarriage must be really bad.
Nice dash and really not far off from a price on a builder.
Flat black, booger weld pans in, crate 350 and drive it. Be a fun driver with zero cares in the world.
That leaking tire is a deal breaker. I’m out.
Great affordable start for somebody!!! Good luck to the new owner and have fun with it!!!
Oh yeah, that is a sweet ’57 beginning project with three on the tree. Great father and son and/or daughter spending time together car.
According to the seller, there’s no engine, trans or driveshaft, so figure that in to your thinking as well. Won’t be real cheap, but better than buying a VIN plate and going from there.
I was surprised to find the VIN welded on the top of the chassis of my Sport Coupe when I hoisted the body off the frame. Establishing the legal history of this roller would be the beginning of one great adventure. The price is a great start.
No title, no problem in a no title state. Also could use it for a drag car too. At least you wouldn’t have to worry too much about lightening the body and removing unnecessary interior parts.
This is a parts car? It looks like a COLLECTION of parts cars, bolted together to make an incomplete parts car.
So many Tri-5 Chevies, not enough…..
Interest!
All these 57’s are coming out of the brush and barns. And all of them appear to be money pits that got parked decades ago.
If I. Had some bills paid off and could afford. This car is salvageable. It would be a fun car for me to reach my 10 yr old daughter how to build an old hot rod and give it to her when she turns 16 rebuilt to new. It would be cherished by her for the rest of her life.
If you should happen to do that, you will cherish every moment you spend with her! Lots of video, creates lots of memories! :-)
Adam, you are giving up on this ol-gal to quickly! I know that anyone who has knowledge of metal fabrication can easily put a new floor in her! I could have at one time when I was young enough to do it! JMO
I see 3 or 4 different colors on the exterior. This car has bee in at least one accident. For someone who has deep pockets, this is a good project, provided the body is straight.