This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air presents itself as a two-door hardtop that was initially acquired by the seller’s father-in-law back in 1983. Subsequently, in 2007, the seller took ownership of the vehicle. A subsequent comprehensive restoration and customization endeavor unfolded, involving processes such as stripping and refinishing the body, replacing the frame, reupholstering the interior, and introducing a 327ci V8 engine coupled with a 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission along with a 9″ Ford rear axle. Added features encompass a Mustang II-style front end, 17″ Budnik wheels, Wilwood four-wheel disc brakes, adaptable coilovers, a bespoke exhaust system, air conditioning, Classic Instrument gauges, a steering wheel with a wood rim, and a Pioneer head unit. Maintenance-wise, an oil change and transmission fluid flush were both executed in 2021. This altered Bel Air is presently available for purchase, accompanied by a collection of refurbishment photographs, records of the modifications made, and a valid Colorado title registered under the seller’s name.
Beginning in August 2016, the body was disassembled and sanded to the bare shell before bodywork was performed. A replacement chassis was sourced and installed before the exterior was repainted in the current shade of blue. The chrome bumpers and trim were refinished or replaced, and additional equipment includes skirted rear fenders, dual exhaust outlets, a retractable antenna, and dual turned-down exhaust outlets. A ding is noted in the passenger door.
Polished 17″ Budnik wheels are mounted with Goodyear Eagle RS-A tires sized 215/55 front and 255/55 rear. The car is fitted with a Mustang II-style front end and adjustable coilovers at all four corners. Braking is handled by power-assisted Wilwood calipers over vented rotors.
The cabin features bench seating re-trimmed in black vinyl with fabric accents complemented by color-coordinated door panels and replacement black carpeting applied over Dynamat insulation. Additional appointments include a heater, air conditioning, lap belts, power windows, and a Pioneer Premier head unit with a USB input and linked to aftermarket speakers. The horn is inoperative.
A wood-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel frames Classic Instruments gauges consisting of a 140-mph speedometer, a tachometer, and readouts for oil pressure, coolant temperature, battery voltage, and fuel level. The five-digit odometer shows 1,100 miles and was reset to zero during the build. Total mileage is unknown.
The replacement 327ci V8 was rebuilt prior to installation and is equipped with an Edelbrock intake manifold and carburetor. Additional equipment includes Mickey Thompson valve covers, a polished air cleaner cover, an aluminum radiator, a Painless Performance wiring harness, a serpentine belt kit, and a custom exhaust system. An oil change was carried out in 2021.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a replacement 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission and a 9″ Ford rear axle. A transmission fluid flush was performed in 2021.
Photos taken during various stages of refurbishment work can be viewed in the gallery.
