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 1957 Chevrolet 2 Door / Del Ray 1957 CHEVROLET - A BIT OF HISTORY The 1957 Chevrolet had a fresh new look, after the practical but characterless Chevy's that preceded it, prior to the introduction of the 1955 model year cars. However, beginning with the 1955 model year, the Bel Air offered excitement in two ways. First, with bold new styling that included tailfins and hooded headlights. Second, with an all-new V-8 engine that would be first on the market to offer Ramjet fuel injection. The very attractive 1957 Chevrolet was 2-1/2 inches longer than the 56 model, the better to show off those flashy fenders and rakish lines. Born: Detroit, Michigan. Launched in 1954 as a 55 model. Minor changes were made the next year, followed in 1957 by a lengthened wheelbase and body plus lavish application of trim, particularly on the rear fenders. The 1957 Chevy was, above all, a stylish automobile. Though it lacked the towering appendages of a Cadillac or Plymouth Fury, the Chevy's rear fenders, following a notch aft of the front doors, swept back to a pair of racy tailfins. The headlights were hooded by the front fenders. Three "venti-ports" sat just behind, while the hood was topped by a pair of half-round nacelles led by small chrome fins that matched those on the fenders. A wraparound windshield was featured, along with rear fender skirts. The biggest source of free information on 1957 Chevy Bel Air www.chevrolet.big.com The 1957 Chevrolet was intended as a way for Chevrolet to out-style and out-power Ford, and thus to eventually take over Ford's sales leadership. With production figures of 1.5 million in 1957, it nearly succeeded. If ever there was a car that embodied the optimistic view of the future most North Americans displayed in the 1950's, it had to be Chevrolet's Bel Air. Some might say the styling was a bit over the top but who cares? Everything was in those days. Chevrolet offered several models ranging from the Bel Air, that was the cream of Chevy's line - which began with the much plainer One-Fifty series - and therefore was given all the bells and whistles and decorative trim needed to make it stand out in a packed field of competitors. Happily the design was harmonious enough to be pleasing to the eye. But the real highlight was engineer Ed Cole's optional small-block V-8. When fuel injection was added this 283 c.i. engine delivered one horsepower per cubic inch, a first for production cars, quickly giving Chevrolet a reputation for performance. Those who selected the fancy Bel Air in 1957 had a host of options to choose from, including a two-tone interior, tinted glass, power convertible top, seat belts, shoulder harnesses, ventilated seat pads; even a tissue dispenser. An upright spare wheel carrier was a deluxe option on the convertible and together with the bullet-style front bumper guards, gave the appearance of a junior Cadillac. Which, of course, was just what the public wanted. For 1957 the grille was made taller and wider - nicely integrated with that impressive bumper - while the interior was done in good taste, especially the elegant dashboard. One neat exterior trick was the way the fuel cap had been hidden. It was in the fin above the left taillight. Chevrolet advertising shouted "The Hot One's Even Hotter." History proved that claim to be correct; with help from the Bel Air, Chevrolet came close to knocking Ford off its perch. Today, 1955-57 Chevy's are exceedingly popular with collectors who, just as buyers could then, may select from seven different body styles. For various reasons, each of the various models seems to have developed a loyal group of followers. Also, the popularity of the 1955 - 1957 Chevrolet cars has resulted in a large number of very active, clubs, and associations. Information on every aspect of the cars is available ranging from technical advice to historical data and everything in between. Parts sources can provide a range of parts including NOS (New Old Stock) to high quality remanufactured components. Virtually everything is available for the 1955-1957 Chevy's. THIS PARTICULAR 1957 CHEVROLET DEL RAY "2 DOOR POST - HISTORY This 1957 Chevrolet is owned by a local collector that is forced to reduce the number of cars that he owns as a result of personal circumstances. In addition to this 1957 210 , we are all so representing his 1958 Chevrolet two door Del Ray "Post." All of his vehicles have been used on a limited basis and have received upgrades that make them usable, reliable classics. This '57 is an excellent example of a car that can be used on a regular basis, provides very good performance and is a classic "cruiser" that will be accepted at any local gathering / car club. The previous owner of the Chevrolet purchased the car in 1984 and there were two reported previous owners. The information that we have indicates that the Chevy is a 210 model that was option from the factory with a 283 "power-pack" (4 barrel & dual exhaust). The car has the rarer, factory padded -- option. It was also produced with the one piece in front bumper. The original rear end ratio was 3:36 /1. The car also had (and still has although non-functional) an AM push button radio. This car was originally produced in the desirable 1957 Chevrolet color of Sierra Gold. The car was recently repainted a similar color receiving a "complete" re-paint including door jams, under trunk, etc. much of the tri, was removed and 1957 Bel Air Side trim was added. Also, other exterior trim was replaced or polished / re-chromed as deemed necessary to bring the car into beautiful cosmetic condition. MECHANICAL CONDITION / UPGRADES This 1957 Chevrolet has been upgraded mechanically including the following: * 350 cubic inch V8 (reportedly rebuilt within 15,000 miles) * Early Edelbrock aluminum manifold & 4 barrel carburetor (oil filter in stock position) * Dual exhaust and glass packs * Chrome 1 wire alternator * Older Mickey Thompson valve covers (custom painted to match exterior color) * 700 R4 transmission (overdrive) with functional lock up style converter (2200 rpm) * Shift quadrant on the dash has been properly re-lettered to indicate the proper gear s * Converted to front disc brakes * Power steering added (within the previous year, or so) * Front suspension rebuild (reported by previous owner.details not provided) * Runs and drives very well EXTERIOR CONDITION * Straight, solid body * Recent re-paint with trim removed * New Bel Air trim added * No exterior body rust /chassis rust (very minor rust in rear tire well area and surface rust noticed in trunk (under mat.see photos) * Exterior trim polished, replaced and/or refurbished (review photos!) * Very nice front & rear bumpers (one piece front bumper!) * Excellent front grill / trim * Very good original glass * Alloy Wheels INTERIOR CONDIITON * Beautiful interior in correct color scheme for Sierra Gold exterior * Original padded dash (rare option!) * Original steering wheel & uncut dashboard * Newer headliner * Excellent door panels * AM/FM radio in glove box (not functional at this time) OVERALL CONDITION / COMMENTS It is hard to for us to believe that this Chevrolet is over 50 years old. This particular car represents the best of both worlds in that it retains its classic charm but offers the improved drivability of the Chevy equipped with later engine and transmission. Also, the front disc brakes and power steering added to the ease of drivability and safety. Also, the Chevy is equipped with seatbelts for additional safety. While this 1957 Chevrolet is not in the show car category it does represent a very unattractive example that has been well cared for and nicely upgraded. The paint is in very good condition and there is no significant body damage, dents, or dings. There is a gap on the rear portion of the Bel Air trim on the left side (rear) of the car and there appears to have been some body damage (now repaired) to this area at some point in time. Mechanically, the Chevy needs nothing to be used and enjoyed at this time. The Chevy starts immediately even after sitting for several weeks. It runs very well, does not overheat and exhibits don't drivability problems. Best of all, we are offering this classic 1957 Chevrolet at a very realistic price due to the circumstances surrounding the sale. If you have a serious interest in the car, please give us a call at 9925-846-1451 and we'll gladly answer any questions that you may have about the car. MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION * While we encourage telephone calls to discuss this vehicle in greater detail we will not respond to inquiries asking "What is the reserve?" Also, if you would prefer that we call you to answer any questions about the vehicle; shipping alternatives, etc. please e-mail us with your telephone number and will gladly get back in touch with you. * We have had very good success utilizing UShip.com to locating transporters (especially for relatively short distances), and recommend giving them a try. For long distance enclosed transport we recommend Showtime Motorsports (enclosed transport only) for competitive national, enclosed moves. * As with virtually all collector/specialty vehicles, we find that parts and resources are readily available for this (and most every vehicle), thanks in large part to the Internet! * In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser's responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: if the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law. * As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our EBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd. * Please keep in mind that, as with any used vehicle, minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present that add to the "patina" of the car and are a part of even the best restoration, or even a relatively new, used "pre-owned" vehicle. Also, ownership of vintage automobiles is more enjoyable if the owner is familiar with the "realities" of these specialty / collectible vehicles. Unlike more modern day vehicles, these cars require regular, ongoing care/maintenance and some mechanical knowledge, patience, and understanding can make the experience considerably more pleasant. That said, collector / "specialty" car owners will tell you (emphatically) that they love their cars and wouldn't trade them for anything!! PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background of any collector car being sold over the Internet. We believe that it is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to: - How long have they been in business? - How much experience do they have with collector cars? - How many positive collector car vehicle sales have completed (positive EBay feedback)? - How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle? - Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "Glamour Shots" taken from a distance? - Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction? - What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license? - Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances? - Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation? - Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales? ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. * Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over 15 is years. We operate a small "brick & mortar", indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles. * The large majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair. * Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing over 400 positive transactions to buyers all over the United States / World. * We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World. * Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions * We enjoy excellent relationships with a number of transport companies and, as a result, can often times obtain preferred pricing for vehicle shipping. Please give us a call and we will be glad to refer you to suitable transport companies. Needless to say, we would recommend a quality, enclosed transporter that is experience with moving high quality, collectible cars. * We frequently sell vehicles to out of state / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area. Thank you, Classic Cars Ltd.
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