1957 CHEVROLET BEL AIR

Details

When Chevrolet began work on the new line of cars for 1957, the initial idea was to introduce a completely new design. However, production delays forced executives to change that strategy and tweak the existing platform used in 1955 and 1956. They incorporated noticeable styling cues like a wider grille up front, bigger tailfins in the rear and the instantly recognizable quarter panel inserts on higher levels. On the inside, they fitted a restyled dash and made subtle changes to the upholstery

patterns. Under the hood, engine options grew, with the offering of a 283ci small block available in a variety of configurations ranging from a single 2-barrel carburetor all the way to fuel injection. The end result was the last and most iconic model in a production run from 1955 to 1957 affectionately known as the 'Tri-Fives' among collectors today. This particular 1957 Bel Air was the recipient of a nut-and-bolt, frame-off restoration to factory specifications. It was repainted to its original color combination of Matador Red with India Ivory roof, and the interior was upholstered in the original two-tone red and black. Under the hood is the original 283ci Power Pack V8 rated at 220hp, backed by a Powerglide automatic transmission. This is a great example of a 1950s icon restored to the exact specifications it rolled off the assembly line with in 1957.