This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible is a restored example equipped with a Super Turbo-Fire 283ci V8, power brakes and steering, and a two-speed Powerglide transmission. Before undergoing a restoration between 1985 and 1986, the car is reported to have resided with the same owner in Arizona for over 29 years. Since the work was completed, it has received numerous awards, including a first place at the Classic Chevy Club International Convention and prizes from dozens of local car shows. A cosmetic refurbishment was performed between 2009 and 2013, and in 2014 a new interior, vinyl top, and seals were installed. This Tri-Five has recently been serviced and is now being offered by the selling dealer in Illinois with documentation, three years of Chevrolet judging sheets, and a clear Utah title.
For the 1957 model year the Bel Air was available in 16 colors. This example left the factory in Matador Red with a white vinyl top as indicated by the trim tag. It is believed to retain factory sheet metal due its early life being spent in the Southwest, and the original chrome and side trim were retained and replated during the restoration. Dual antennas have been installed along with a factory Continental Kit, and a set of uninstalled fender skirts are included with the sale.
The 1980s restoration work was performed by a Mr. King, who went on to show the car at dozens of local events and a few Classic Chevrolet Club Nationals. Between 2009 and 2013, the car received a cosmetic refurbishment by Mr. King. The body was left on the chassis that time, and all removable panels were finished separately. After this work was completed the car went across the stage at Barrett Jackson’s 2014 Scottsdale auction and ended up in a private collection. It was featured in Season 1 of Bitchin Rides that same year, and the power convertible top was also reupholstered and new seals were fitted to the body.
The red and silver vinyl interior was also reuplostered in 2014 and features a power front seat, roll-up windows, and a push-button radio.
Power steering and brakes are equipped along with an optional dash-mounted traffic light viewer. 46k miles are shown on the odometer.
The engine compartment is reported to remain factory correct. Both the 283ci V8 and two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission were rebuilt during the restoration, and the engine comes equipped with the 220 hp Power Pack, consisting of a four-barrel carburetor, dual exhaust, and higher compression heads. An electric fan has been added to the frontside of the radiator.
The 1st place placard from the 1957 Modified Class for the 1986 Classic Chevy Club’s International Convention can be seen above, along with some newspaper clippings showing the car in attendance at some local car shows. Other awards and judging sheets can be seen in the gallery below.
