This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air four-door sedan is one of the 254,331 examples produced that year, and it is described by the seller as being under his ownership for more than 30 years, during which a partial restoration, including a repaint, was performed. The car is presentable with rust issues said to have been effectively mitigated, a replacement engine block, and a selection of desirable options that include factory air conditioning. Its odometer reading is said to be accurate. This Bel Air is optioned with Chevrolet’s 283-cu.in. OHV small-block V-8. The "V" in the first position of the VIN indicates that this Bel Air came from the factory with a V-8 engine installed. With a compression ratio of 8.5:1 and a Carter two-barrel carburetor, the engine was rated by the manufacturer at 185 horsepower when new. the engine is original, except for a correct 283 replacement block, with no stated rebuild history. the engine idles and runs well with no smoke, that there are no issues with the Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission, and that there is some leaking around the transmission and power steering box. The engine bay presents as being strongly clean, per the provided photos. I describes the repaint as being in average condition with “several imperfections.” Minor dents and scratches are reported. the Bel Air’s original chrome has been removed, cleaned, and reinstalled. Minor scratches to the windows are reported. All lighting is said to operate. The underside appears to be generally clean, per the photos. The seating materials are said to be original to the Bel Air, and some tears are visible in photos. the carpeting has been replaced and remains in good condition. The headliner is said to have no sag and a functioning dome lamp. The seller says the dashboard has full trim, and the original factory AM radio, but states the radio only works through one speaker in the dash. The heater is said to operate, but the factory air compressor is said to need a recharge. The trunk has a rubber mat and appears to be generally clean. The springs and shock absorbers are said to have been replaced about nine years ago, with no functional issues or damage reported. The hydraulic drum brakes are said to stop the car properly. The Coker whitewalls are described as having good remaining tread.
