1957 Chevrolet Bel Air

Description

When it comes to classic cars, few automotive brands are more associated with sun-filled Americana and good 'ole fashioned good times than Chevrolet. Over the last 108 years, the bowtie division has peddled some of the most charismatic cars ever created. And when it comes to charisma, perhaps no Chevrolet is more significant than the venerable Bel Air. Often considered the quintessential '50s classic, Bel Airs like this Colonial Cream tri-five have timeless appeal that transcends generations. And when that charm is updated with things like air conditioning, power steering and power disc brakes, you get old school metal that's fun to admire AND fun to cruise!

DRIVING FREE

When one thinks of good times and consumer goods, its easy to cite companies like Coke and Pepsi – you know, the brands that actively build their identity around people having fun. But, if you're a true car enthusiast, virtually any rad time you can conjure involves some form of Bel Air. That's why tri-fives continue to be resilient collectibles. Naturally, that mojo begins with appearance. This gleaming hardtop wraps a full accoutrement of Bel Air trim around splendid 2-stage and a solid profile that's benefitted from quality, body-on restoration. And, in addition to enhancing safety, items like dual mirrors, electric wipers, lightly tinted glass and modern tri-bar headlights aid in comfort and drivability.

PROVEN SMALL BLOCK POWER

Tri-fives introduced the world to Chevrolet's venerable small block, and today, in the elite company of Ford's storied flathead, it remains quintessential hot rod power! Look under this Bel Air's stainless-trimmed hood and you'll find 350 cubic inches of rowdy V8 that's been spiked with proven upgrades. At the top of the block, a polished air cleaner feeds a 600cfm Edelbrock 4-barrel, which is sequenced to a matching Edelbrock intake and a small Mr. Gasket pressure gauge. At the sides of that plane, cast iron heads hang polished valve covers and a stamped Chevrolet breather above coated block hugger headers and a mild cam. The fires are lit by a Mallory Unilite distributor, which bounces spark between a polished Mallory coil and loomed Mallory Pro Wires. At the front of those cables, pliable V-belts spin trick pulleys between a polished alternator, a coated AC compressor and modern power steering. And in front of those belts, a stainless-trimmed support frames an efficient Be Cool radiator.

STRONG AND STEADY

Under the car, it's pretty much business as usual with the exception of a few solid upgrades. Traditional driving characteristics are supplied by a lucid factory suspension that's been augmented with smooth power steering. The rowdy small block kicks a trusted Muncie 4-speed, which spins an 8.2-inch Drop Out axle that's finished with bold, 3.55 gears. Those gears are countered by power front disc and rear drum brakes. Good sounds are created with the help on an X-pipe crossover, throaty Magnaflow mufflers and polished stainless tips. And everything rolls on staggered American Racing wheels, which twist grippy Falken radials.

DYED IN COOL

Like American design in general, American car interiors were incredible in the 1950s, and this striking Bel Air proves the rule. Themes of handsome looks and posh motoring manifest in silver-piped vinyl that reflects a roster of choice upgrades. Big bench seats provide safety and convenience with modern lap belts and a small armrest that includes cupholders. A Colonial Cream dash hoists tasteful Classic Instruments telemetry over modern air conditioning and direct-fit audio. And the driver commands the boulevard through a reduced-diameter steering wheel and a traditional Hurst shifter.

Looking for a new obsession that literally moves you? Check out this awesome Bel Air resto-mod! Call, click or visit www.RKMotors.com for more information.

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HIGHLIGHTS

• The beneficiary of a quality, body-on restoration
• 350 cubic inch Chevrolet V8
• Muncie 4-speed manual transmission
• 8.2-inch Drop Out rear axle / 3.55 gears
• Modern air conditioning
• Power steering
• Power front disc and rear drum brakes
• 18 and 20-inch American Racing wheels
• Service records
• All RK Motors vehicles receive a comprehensive, multi-point inspection
• We can ship your new classic anywhere in the world