Basic information and history

The 1957 Dodge Royal represents the middle of Dodge's lineup this year, positioned between the Coronet and the Custom Royal. The model year marks a clear change of direction with Virgil Exner's Forward Look, combining body lines, fins and proportions with new chassis technology. Torsion-Aire with torsion springs in the front was introduced for improved handling and lower body height. The TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission with push buttons was also offered this year, something that has become a hallmark of Mopar from the period.

This example is imported from the USA and is therefore not sold in Sweden. The Swedish Transport Agency misdeclared the car as a Dodge Coronet, when it is in fact a Royal. The current owner has reclassified the car correctly. The odometer reading is stated to be 62,540 kilometers. The current owner is the only owner in Sweden. The Royal equipment level was the middle option in 1957, and the car is reportedly equipped with a larger engine than standard. As a curiosity, it is mentioned that the combination of Torsion-Aire and push-button operated TorqueFlite is typical of 1957 and gives a clear impression of the time.

Equipment and options

• 5.3-liter V8 of approx. 310hp
• TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission with push buttons
• Spare wheel in the trunk

Modifications and improvements

The body has been repainted in the original colour. Damaged areas have been tin-filled before painting. The undercarriage has been scraped clean of old undercarriage protection and then treated. The carburettor has been replaced, and the seller states that an original unit has been located in England. The electrical system wiring has been replaced. The generator has been replaced with a unit from a Volvo 240 as the original could not be repaired. The gearbox was completely refurbished about ten years ago. There is a crack in the manifold that has been repaired with chemical metal.

Condition

Body and exterior: The paint is described as fine with a stone chip of approximately one millimeter. Repainting has been carried out in the original color, with tin filler where there was body damage. The seller reports a slight discoloration from rust under the paint up at the roof molding, which is reportedly common on the model. The undercarriage has been cleaned of older protection and treated. Glass has two scratches on the left side of the windshield, otherwise in good condition. Chrome parts are fine with normal wear, moldings in good condition and emblems very fine according to the seller. Minor scratches and marks occur on the chrome.

Interior: The interior is considered very good. There is a hole in the cardboard bottom of the glove compartment. The door sides are slightly bent at the bottom and parts of the textile against the door have been replaced by previous owners. The headliner is good with some discoloration. The steering wheel has cracks. The dashboard shows very limited wear.

Tires and rims: The tires are in good condition and have been driven approximately five hundred miles according to the report. Spare wheel is available. The rims have scratches that can be attributed to the ravages of time.

Mechanics and function: The engine is described as being in very good condition and in a bolt-on design apart from the carburetor which has been replaced. The electrical wiring is new. The alternator has been replaced with a reliable unit from a Volvo 240. The brakes are straight according to the seller and no brake components have been replaced. The gearbox was completely overhauled about ten years ago and the drivetrain is said to be in good condition.

Service history

The seller does not know of the latest service, but states that the oil has been changed every two years during his ownership. Previous service records, history or receipts are reportedly missing. The gearbox is said to have been renovated approximately ten years ago, documentation for this is not specified. The odometer reading is said to be guaranteed by the seller.

Summary

A 1957 Dodge Royal in the middle trim level, imported from the USA and with a stated mileage of 62,540 kilometers. The car has been repainted in the original color with tin filler where necessary, the undercarriage has been cleaned and treated. The interior is in very good condition with a few minor complaints. Mechanically the car is stated to be in good condition, with a replaced carburetor, new electrical wiring and replaced alternator and a completely renovated gearbox. Equipped with a larger engine than standard and the period-typical TorqueFlite with push buttons.