Basic information and history

The 1957 model year is the culmination of Chevrolet's so-called Tri-Five generation and the model that, more than any other, has come to symbolize the American car of the 1950s. For the series' final year, the body received a heavily revised front with a wide grille and integrated turn signals in the bumper, higher-mounted headlights, and the well-known rear fins in anodized aluminum. Under the hood, for the first time, was the new 283 cubic-inch Turbo-Fire V8 as a small-block engine, in its top version featuring Rochester Ramjet fuel injection, and buyers could choose between a manual gearbox, Powerglide, and the short-lived Turboglide.

Sport Coupé is the hardtop body without a B-pillar, where the side windows form a completely open space when rolled down. Together with the Bel Air as the top model, with its extra chrome trim, gold-colored emblems, and lavish interior details, this is the most sought-after combination in the 1957 lineup.

This example was imported from the USA and was therefore not delivered new in Sweden. The odometer shows 11,160 km, a figure the seller cannot guarantee. The car has had three owners in total. According to the seller, it has always been kept in a dry garage and very rarely driven in rain, and has been used every summer for pleasure driving and outings.

It is worth noting that the keys to the car are missing. The car can still be started, and a new lock set can be ordered online.

Equipment and options

• Electric window winders
• Tissue holder
• Functioning audio and media system

The car is not in original condition. The deviation the seller states is that it rides on different wheels than the original specification. Otherwise, the car has received a new radiator and a new fuel tank with associated fittings.

Condition

Bodywork and paint are both described as being in good condition. The seller notes that there are a few blemishes in the paint at the seams. The glass is also said to be in good condition.

According to the seller, the interior is in excellent condition, and the same applies to the headliner. The dashboard is assessed to be in good condition.

Tires and wheels are stated to be in good condition.

Mechanically, the engine, gearbox, and brakes are all described as being in good condition. According to the seller, the engine starts and runs flawlessly, and the gearbox shifts without issue. The car can be driven as it stands. On the electrical side, there are two known remarks: the fuel gauge is not connected and the originally fitted temperature gauge is also not connected. Exterior lighting works and the instrument panel is free of warning lights.

Service history

The car does not have a full service history, and there are no receipts or other documentation to substantiate the service record. The seller states that he has personally handled the maintenance, including changing the oil, filter, and spark plugs. In addition, the car has received a new radiator and a new tank with fittings.

The vehicle has passed inspection, and the most recently stated inspection was carried out in 2017.

Summary

A 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Coupé, the pillarless hardtop of the most iconic of the Tri-Five model years, imported from the USA with three owners on record. The car shows 11,160 km, a figure that cannot be guaranteed, and has been kept in a dry garage and used during summers.

Bodywork, paint, glass, engine, gearbox, brakes, and tires and wheels are consistently described as being in good condition, while the interior and headliner are highlighted as excellent. The car rides on wheels other than original and has received a new radiator and a new fuel tank with fittings. Buyers should expect to address the fuel gauge and temperature gauge, which are not connected, and to acquire a new lock set since the keys are missing.

An opportunity for someone seeking a drivable and regularly used representative of American 1950s design, with a clearly documented starting point.