Bel Air’s Bold Step: A 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Coupe Redefined by Diesel Power Imagine a classic 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Coupe, its iconic lines and chrome accents now housing a 6.6L Duramax LMM turbodiesel V8. This extraordinary build, a seven-year project completed in 2021 by American Legends Hot Rods and Muscle Cars, represents a fusion of classic American style and modern diesel power. With 634 horsepower and 1,098 ft-lbs of torque, this Bel Air is not just a showpiece but a performance powerhouse.
Duramax Dominance: 6.6L Turbodiesel Power Plant The heart of this Bel Air is a 6.6L Duramax LMM turbodiesel V8, built by Hausmann’s Diesel Performance. Dynoed at an impressive 634 HP and 1,098 ft-lbs of torque, it’s a testament to the capabilities of modern diesel engineering. Tuned by Poor Boys Diesel, the engine features a 5-position EFI Live switch in the center console, allowing for customizable performance. The engine boasts diamond pistons, a stroker CP3, 45% over injectors, ARP studs, a 68mm Fleece Performance turbo, and a FASS 225 lift pump. The cryo-treated ZF6 6-speed manual transmission, coupled with a South Bend Stage 3 clutch, ensures all that power is effectively transferred to the wheels.
Aesthetic Excellence: Cadillac Black Diamond and Crimson Red Accents The exterior is finished in Cadillac Black Diamond paint, applied by Hogie Shine’s, creating a deep, lustrous finish. Deleted emblems, door handles, and other trim pieces give the car a sleek, modern look. Cut-and-tucked chrome bumpers with polished stainless steel trim enhance the car’s refined appearance. The underbody is coated with a color-matched bedliner material for added durability. The engine and transmission are Cerakoted in Crimson Red, adding a striking visual contrast.
Chassis and Suspension: Engineered for Performance The Roadster Shop REVO chassis, powder coated in Titanium to match the wheels, provides a solid foundation for the car’s performance. AFCO adjustable coilovers allow for a customizable ride and handling. A custom 3.00 Eaton Truetrac rear end with 35 spline axles ensures optimal traction. Rack and pinion steering and Wilwood 4-wheel disc brakes with a hydro-boost master cylinder provide precise control and stopping power.
Interior Refinement: Crimson Red Elegance The interior, inspired by the Lamborghini Urus, features custom leather and vinyl bucket seats with CNC-stitched inserts and French seams. 3D-printed door panels and an exterior color-matched dash and console create a cohesive and modern look. The dash speaker, clock, ashtray, heater controls, and dash lights have been removed, with all controls moved to the console. A hidden Bluetooth head unit stereo system with twelve JL Audio speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer provides a high-quality audio experience. Custom one-off Dakota Digital gauges with a Titanium color “Hellair” logo and a Billet Specialties steering wheel complete the interior upgrades.
Recognition and Accolades: A Show-Stopping Build Since its completion, this Bel Air has garnered numerous awards and accolades. It debuted at the 2021 Goodguys Southwest Nationals and was a Chevrolet Performance GM Iron Builder of the Year Finalist in 2021. It was showcased at SEMA 2021 and was a Barret-Jackson Cup participant in 2022. It has also been featured in Hot Rod Industry Alliance, Goodguys Gazette, and The American Tri-Five Magazine. With over 30 Best of Show awards and two Meguiar’s awards, this Bel Air is a proven show-winner. This vehicle will be presented in Glendale 2025 on Saturday, March 22nd, Lot R556.
Summary:
- 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Coupe with a 6.6L Duramax LMM turbodiesel V8.
- 634 HP and 1,098 ft-lbs of torque.
- ZF6 6-speed manual transmission.
- Cadillac Black Diamond paint with Crimson Red interior.
- Frame-off restoration by American Legends Hot Rods and Muscle Cars.
- Numerous show awards and magazine features.
- Custom chassis, suspension, and interior.
- Scheduled for Glendale 2025, Saturday, March 22nd, Lot R556.
*Disclaimer: The content presented here is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation of this specific vehicle. Considering the age, extensive modifications, and nature of custom vehicles, we highly recommend a thorough inspection and independent verification of all specifications before any purchase.
Source: mecum.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
