1957 Chevrolet Bel Air

To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys Hershey event, 9 - 10 October 2024.
Offered Without Reserve $60,000 - $80,000 USD

• Rare factory Fuelie example of the quintessential American convertible
• Powered by a 283-cu.-in. V-8 engine fed by Rochester mechanical fuel injection
• Reported to produce 283 hp when new, delivering 1 hp per cubic inch of engine displacement
• Finished in its factory-correct Larkspur Blue over light blue and medium blue pattern vinyl upholstery; white convertible top
• Features power brakes, steering, and convertible top, as well as an uncommon chrome tissue dispenser, rear fender spats, and white top boot

The 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is among the most recognizable American automobiles of all time, an icon of its age. In the final year of the models third generation, it offered an intoxicating blend of style, performance, and features with its freshly designed front end and tastefully executed tailfins.

Importantly, 1957 also saw the debut of what would become another American icon, the Rochester Ramjet fuel-injection system. A constant-flow system, the Rochester unit metered fuel to all cylinders simultaneously from a central spider of injection lines. An enormously expensive option at $500, the new Fuelie system helped push General Motors modest small-block V-8 to a potent one unit of horsepower for every cubic-inch of displacement. Designed primarily for the Chevrolet Corvette, the advanced fuel-injection system eventually made its way into Chevrolets regular production lineup. One such example, acquired by an enterprising buyer with a sedan budget and a Corvette appetite, is presented here in highly desirable convertible form.

Assembled in Los Angeles, California, this true VC-coded Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible proudly displays the crossed checkered flag fender emblem denoting its 283-cubic-inch Fuelie engine. The cars trim tag indicates it came finished from the factory in Larkspur Blue over light blue and medium blue patterned vinyl upholstery. Reportedly the recipient of a previous, high-quality restoration, this Bel Air retains its factory-correct color combination for a handsome, period look that perfectly complements the models eye-catching mid-century styling. A correct Chevrolet AM radio, square dash clock, gold Bel Air emblem, and unusual chrome tissue dispenser round out the medium blue dash, while color-matched 14-inch steel wheels wear chrome Bel Air spinner hubcaps and are shod in wide whitewall tires.

The quintessential mid-century American convertible, equipped with one of the eras most powerful engines and wearing one of the periods most striking color schemes, this rare, fuel-injected Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible is sure to be the star of any classics gathering.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/hf24/.