1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Two-Door Hardtop

Description

The classic 1957 Chevy is famous for its jet-age fins, curvy body, and signature hood rockets. This groundbreaking automobile was available in two- and four-door sedans, convertibles, and wagons, but the two-door hardtop was the most desirable, especially in the top Bel Air trim. That option adorned the post-free body in chrome and stainless, added gold accents to the grille, nose, and fenders, fitted ornate wheel covers, and had wider, uplevel side trim with gold wording and crests.

A comfortable bench seat welcomed occupants into the Bel Air’s premium interior, with the steering wheel framing a large central speedometer with outboard fuel and temperature gauges. The driver controlled either a six-cylinder, or 265- or 283 cu-in V8s, with a three-speed manual or two-speed Powerglide harnessing that power.

This 1957 Chevy Bel Air Two-Door Hardtop is a good foundation for a classic Tri-Five project. It wears an authentic patina, has V8 power, and had a major service performed in 2021 with many new parts.

Highlights 

• A running 1957 Chevy Two-Door Hardtop project with great patina  

• Bel Air trim level 

• 283 cu-in Power Pack V8 rated at 220 horsepower 

• Two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission 

• Finished in Dusk Pearl paint with Silver interior 

• The chassis number (VC57L163351) decodes as:  

  • V – V8 engine 

  • C – Bel Air model 

  • 57 – 1957 model year 

  • L – Los Angeles, CA assembly plant 

  • 163351 – sequential production number 

Features 

• 2021 maintenance includes: 

  • Four new Coker tires 

  • Complete brake overhaul including wheel cylinders, shoes, flex lines, and original treadle-vac booster and master cylinder 

  • New radiator  

  • New water pump  

  • New plug wires 

  • New fuel pump  

  • New power steering ram and hoses 

  • Overhaul of Rochester four-barrel carburetor  

  • New exhaust system with dual mufflers and pipes 

  • New fuel tank 

  • New battery 

  • One freeze plug replaced 

Known Imperfections 

• The original paint is worn and shows corrosion and surface rust 

• The body has some dents 

• There is one area of known rust on the passenger front lower fender

• Light underside rust 

• Chrome and stainless shows usual wear 

• The interior front bench seat foam is dry and crumbly 

• The front seat has a repairable seam split and the driver side door panel has an area of fabric deterioration 

• The radio and clock do not work 

• The windshield wipers are not working (possibly a bad switch) 

• There is seepage from the engine, transmission, and power steering valve 

 Included 

• Keys 

• NOS pair of chrome spear strips that mount below the doors 

• 1965-present repair receipts documenting all work done to vehicle 

 Ownership History

Consignor states that he purchased this car in 1965, and it was in long-term storage from the early 1990s until 2021. It sports the Power Pack option and is almost entirely original except for replacement of the Turboglide transmission with a Powerglide in the 1970s. It is a good candidate for restoration, and at this time it is a good running driver.