This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop represents a significant piece of automotive history, combining classic styling with a potent, fuel-injected 283ci V8 engine. This particular example boasts a well-documented history, including a Bonneville Salt Flats run in 1958, and has undergone a comprehensive mechanical restoration overseen by the late Chuck Smith, a noted Bel Air fuel injection specialist. This Bel Air, finished in its original black, presents a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts.
This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop is powered by its original, matching numbers 283/283 HP Fuelie V8 engine. Rebuilt by the Vrbancic Brothers of Ontario, California, the engine features the original block with updated pistons and heads milled 0.30 over. The original factory fuel injection unit (no. 7014960) was rebuilt by Chuck Smith. Smith also replaced the radiator with a date code correct unit with Harrison markings and added a new original AC no. 4346 fuel pump. The engine also retains its original 905 distributor. A factory-mounted air scoop on the radiator core and the original opposing hood-mounted divider cutout bracket are further testaments to the car’s originality.
The power is transferred through a rebuilt 3-speed manual transmission, providing the driver with full control over the car’s performance.
The exterior of the Bel Air is finished in its original code 793 Black, refinished in the 1990s by the original owner. The car retains its original glass and brightwork, further highlighting its originality.
The interior features a refurbished Matador Red and black upholstery and headliner. The dashboard and all gauges have been rebuilt, and a new Wonderbar radio has been installed (the original radio is also included). A functional clock adds to the interior’s period-correct charm.
This Bel Air’s history is well documented, including the original bill of sale, payment coupons, registration slips, and registration documents, as well as the owner’s manual and service policy packet. A handwritten letter by the original owner, George Miller, is also included. In 1958, Miller took the car to Bonneville, where it ran 135.95 mph. A photo and dash-mounted timing tag commemorate this event. The car was built at the Van Nuys, California plant on July 8, 1957, and purchased on July 22, 1957, from Don Steves Chevrolet in La Habra, California, by George Miller. The seller inherited the car from Mr. Miller’s estate in 2020. The car retains its California yellow license plates.
The mechanical restoration included rebuilding the original wiper motor and Electro Vac switch, rebuilding the heater, installing new brakes and an NOS master cylinder, updating the axle bearings, and installing a new wiring harness.
This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop, with its documented history, fuel-injected engine, and comprehensive restoration, represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of American automotive and motorsports history. It is scheduled to cross the auction block on Thursday, March 20th at the Glendale 2025 auction.
Summary/Specs List:
- Model: 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop
- Engine: 283/283 HP Fuel Injected V8 (Matching Numbers)
- Transmission: 3-Speed Manual
- Exterior Color: Black (Original Code 793)
- Interior Color: Matador Red/Black
- Key Features: Original Fuel Injection, Bonneville History, Comprehensive Restoration, Original Documentation
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle. For more information on this specific car, you can reach out to the seller.
Source: mecum.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
