The Chevrolet Cameo Carrier redefined the mid-1950s pickup, introducing sedan-like styling and upscale features to the utilitarian truck segment. This particular 1957 Chevrolet Cameo Pickup honors that tradition while vastly improving upon the original mechanical foundation. It has been the subject of a comprehensive frame-off restoration, resulting in a show-quality restomod. The result is a truck that delivers both iconic design and reliable, powerful performance. The elegant, black-on-black color scheme emphasizes its stylish, car-like bodywork.
Exterior: The Stylish Black Finish
The body of this 1957 Chevrolet Cameo Pickup is finished in a sleek, deep black, perfectly complementing its distinctive styling. The Cameo was famous for its smooth, fiberglass bed sides that contrasted with the standard steel beds of the time. This design gave the truck a polished, passenger-car aesthetic. The bed floor itself has been finished, lending an immaculate and show-ready appearance. The entire exterior is a testament to the quality achieved during the frame-off restoration process. It truly captures the Cameo’s original luxury mandate.
Chassis and Rolling Stock
The stance of this restomod is enhanced by a set of staggered Billet Specialties wheels. It utilizes 18-inch wheels up front and 20-inch wheels at the rear, creating an aggressive profile. Underneath, the truck features significant handling improvements. A robust four link suspension system has been installed at the rear. This setup works in conjunction with Ridetech coil-over shocks on all four corners, greatly improving ride quality. The handling is vastly superior to the original setup.
Interior: Comfort and Modern Details
The cabin of this 1957 Chevrolet Cameo Pickup is finished in a matching black, continuing the theme of purposeful elegance. The interior has been thoughtfully updated to enhance both comfort and the overall driving experience. A tilt steering column is present, allowing the driver to find a perfect seating position. Gauges have been updated with a set of modern Dolphin white dial units. These instruments provide accurate readings while maintaining a classic look. The incorporation of modern amenities makes the truck highly functional.
Essential Comfort Features
Chief among the interior upgrades is the inclusion of a modern Vintage Air system. This provides powerful and reliable climate control, a massive comfort enhancement over the original design. All these interior elements combine classic truck proportions with genuine modern usability. The meticulous restoration ensured that all interior elements were properly finished. This creates a comfortable and engaging atmosphere for the driver.
Engine and Drivetrain Performance Specs
The power source for this Cameo is a modern, high-output LS3 6.2-liter V8 engine. The LS3 swap is hugely popular in restomod circles for its robust performance and excellent reliability. The engine is kept cool by an aluminum radiator equipped with an electric cooling fan. Power is efficiently delivered to the rear wheels via a 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission. This six-speed unit provides excellent acceleration combined with low-rpm highway cruising. Stopping power is equally impressive, utilizing Wilwood power four-wheel disc brakes. These massive performance upgrades ensure the truck handles and performs like a contemporary vehicle.
Summary: A Performance-Focused 1957 Chevrolet Cameo Pickup
This 1957 Chevrolet Cameo Pickup is an outstanding frame-off restomod, seamlessly merging timeless style with modern street performance. The sleek black finish, customized chassis, and striking Billet wheels create a beautiful aesthetic. The major mechanical upgrades, including the LS3 6.2L V8 and 6L80 automatic transmission, ensure exhilarating power and superb handling. Further enhanced by Wilwood disc brakes and Vintage Air, this Cameo is truly ready for confident daily use or show presentation. It is a perfect marriage of classic elegance and robust modern engineering.
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Source: mecum.com