The 1957 Chevrolet could easily be argued as a quintessential American icon. While Ford might have outsold Chevrolet in 1957, the test of time has shown Chevrolet as the more recognized and favorable finned car. Maybe it was how GM head stylist Clare MacKichan and team were able to bond curves and angles together to form a futuristic looking fighter jet on wheels, with imitation like turrets in the hood and sharp tail fins in the rear. 1957 was the conclusion of the tri-five Chevys and General Motors created a masterpiece for the finale.

That masterpiece was the 1957 Chevrolet Bel-Air, the highest trim level in the lineup and this car is a stunning example. This amazingly restored Bel-Air Convertible is simply one of the finest we have ever seen. The crossed flags emblems on the front fenders of this Sierra Gold beauty tell us it is equipped with the optional 283/283 solid lifter fuel-injected V-8 and three-speed manual transmission, Chevy’s top engine and transmission combination offered in 1957. Achieving an industry first of one horsepower per one cubic inch of displacement, the “fuelie” 283 ci V8 was one the most powerful of the time. Conceived by legendary engineers Zora Arkus-Duntov and Ed Cole, it was able to achieve that feat by a Rochester mechanical continuous-port fuel injection system. A few other mechanical upgrades such as solid lifters and a “Duntov” cam, also helped the engine reach peak horsepower. The “fuelie” engine added $500 to the price tag,

Built at the Lansing, Michigan assembly plant, this car has undergone a meticulous restoration to concours standards, as evidenced by its having won both an Antique Automobile Club of America National First Junior and Senior award, proudly displayed on the grille. Finished in its original color combination of code 805 Sierra Gold over code 681 Copper/Beige vinyl, with a correct beige pinpoint convertible top, the combination is striking. Chrome hubcaps with wheel spinner centers dress up each wheel, and out back the trunk has the rare three-piece aluminum deck lid trim installed, a dealer option of the time as well as dual antennas. Inside the fully restored trunk a spare tire is available with posted instructions on how to use the provided jack and change a tire.

It is cars like this that lead to the 1974 marketing campaign, as American as “hot dogs, baseball, apple pie, and Chevrolet.” This gorgeous 1957 Chevrolet Bel-Air convertible, with the rare fuel injection and stunning Sierra Gold finish will easily turn heads for good reason wherever it goes.

Offers welcome and trades considered.

$152,500

Stock number 7668