1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible

Price: $129,995
DUAL QUADS, 283 V8, 3-SPD MANUAL, POWER TOP, SAME OWNER 30+ YEARS, FIRST TIME OFFERED FOR SALE IN 21ST CENTURY!
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible 2-Door Convertible
Exterior Color:      Coronado Yellow
Interior Color:      Yellow
Stock Number: 2985R
Mileage: Exempt - 271
Engine: 283ci V8
Transmission: Column-Shift 3-Speed
Title: Clear
VIN: VC57J219331
Vehicle Description

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Genuine VC-VIN: Authentic 1957 Bel Air V8 Convertible.
• Rare Factory Coronado Yellow: 803 paint code which is a highly collectible, ultra-vibrant 1957 color.
• Long-Term Single Ownership: Lovingly preserved in a private North Carolina collection for over 30 years.
• Flawless Vault-Kept Body: High-tier, six-figure quality restoration featuring laser-straight metal and incredible gapping.
• Period-Correct V8: Equipped with a 283ci V8 featuring dual-quad carburetors and a 3-speed manual transmission.
• Iconic Accessories: Fitted with a continental kit, fender skirts, and classic steel wheels with hubcaps.
• Time-Capsule Mileage: Less than 300 miles logged since the restoration was finalized.


BODY OVERVIEW:
This '57 Bel Air drop-top is the absolute definition of a showroom centerpiece. Restored to an incredibly high standard for a prominent local collector in the early 1990s, the car spent the last three decades tucked away in climate-controlled storage. The sheet metal remains remarkably straight, the stainless trim is brilliant, and the overall panel alignment mirrors a fresh build. It carries the unmistakable presence of a true six-figure restoration that has been frozen in time.

PAINT CONDITION OVERVIEW:
While many '57s sport the common, muted Colonial Cream, this rare convertible is finished in its factory-correct, highly sought-after shade of Coronado Yellow (Paint Code 803). The paintwork is spectacular, showing a deep glass-like reflection and mirror clarity that completely defies the age of the restoration. Because the car was immediately parked and displayed post-build, typical road rash, rock chips, and scratches are virtually non-existent. It presents exactly like a car painted yesterday, radiating a bright, vivid hue that captures the true optimism of the mid-century era.

INTERIOR CONDITION OVERVIEW:
The interior features a stunning, period-correct yellow and silver vinyl (Trim code 682) split-bench layout that perfectly complements the Coronado Yellow exterior. Sitting inside this car is an absolute time-machine experience; there are no aftermarket gauges screwed into the dash, no modern stereos cut into the console, and no modern modifications which leaves just pure, untouched 1957 mid-century style. All upholstery, door panels, and dash trim show beautifully with zero wear.

MECHANICAL OVERVIEW:
Under the iconic hood is a period-correct 283ci V8 engine fitted with a highly desirable dual-quad carburetor setup and paired with a traditional 3-speed column-shifted manual transmission. Collector Note: After being completed, this car was placed on display and has traveled fewer than 300 total miles. Because it sat idle for decades, our team recently performed a basic wake-up service to get it running. While it fires up and drives, it is currently running rough and will require a comprehensive mechanical re-commissioning (carburetor tuning and a thorough maintenance/service) to be ready for regular road use.

WHAT YOU’LL LOVE ABOUT THIS CAR:
• The Rarity Factor: Striking Coronado Yellow is vastly harder to find than standard '57 colors, making it an instant standout at any national Tri-Five meet.
• Unrepeatable Cosmetic Condition: The body, paint, and chrome are done to a standard that would cost a fortune to replicate today.
• Pristine History: 30+ years in a high-end private estate collection means it has never been abused or left out in the elements.


WHAT YOU MIGHT HATE ABOUT THIS CAR:
• Requires Mechanical Re-Commissioning: It is currently a running project that needs a weekend mechanic or shop to tune the dual-quads
• Convertible Top & Window Adjustments: The convertible top mechanism must be operated manually, the door glass requires alignment adjustments, and the passenger quarter glass frame is split.

• Minor Electrical Quirks: Typical of cars that sit, the wipers, heater blower, and temperature gauge remain inoperative, and the reverse lights stay constantly on with the key in the ignition. 

DOES IT NEED ANYTHING?
• A full mechanical tune-up to smooth out the rough idle. (Carbs were recently rebuilt)
• Electrical troubleshooting for the wipers, heater blower, and temp gauge.
• Replacement of the old tires before any highway driving.
• Adjustment to the driver/passenger side window tracking.


WHAT BUYER IS LOOKING FOR THIS CAR?
This Bel Air is built for the seasoned collector or Tri-Five enthusiast who recognizes the immense value of an authentic, rare-color VC-code convertible with a laser-straight body. If you appreciate rare factory paint codes, enjoy the process of dialing in a classic car's mechanicals, or want a jaw-dropping investment piece to anchor your garage, this Coronado Yellow beauty offers a premium foundation that cannot be duplicated for backyard money.

Contact Rare Rides Company at 980-306-8100 or info@rarerides.com for more information

Rare Rides Company does not collect tax, tag or title fees. 

Title Status: CLEAN

DOES IT WORK?
Air Conditioning N/A
Heater NO - blower inop.
Speedometer YES
Odometer YES
Oil PSI Gauge/Light YES
Temperature Gauge/Light NO
Fuel Gauge YES
Tachometer N/A
Wipers NO
Windows YES
Horn YES
Radio YES (static)
Headlights YES
Tail Lights YES
Brake Lights YES 
Reverse Lights YES - constant on
Turn Signals YES
Emergency Brake YES
4x4/AWD N/A
Tire Condition: Older, need replaced 
Keys – Ignition YES, Door YES, Trunk YES
Seatbelts Front: N/A Rear: N/A
Runs & Drives YES

Additional Photos
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible   - Photo 2 - Statesville, NC 28677
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1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible   - Photo 94 - Statesville, NC 28677
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible   - Photo 95 - Statesville, NC 28677

click on a thumbnail to view full-size photos
Vehicle Features & Options

Standard Features

Audio System:
  • AM Radio
Comfort Features:
  • Heater

Installed Options

Convenience Features:
  • Power Antenna
  • Power Convertible Top
Engine:
  • Dual 4-Barrel Carburetors
  • Dual Exhaust
Exterior Features:
  • Continental Kit
  • Fender Skirts
Tires and Rims:
  • Whitewall Tires
Contact Information
Rare Rides Company   —
Main Phone: (980) 306-8100
Alt. Phone: (704) 663-0432
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: All vehicles sold As-Is, Where-Is; all sales final. Descriptions are for identification only and do not constitute a warranty. While we perform visual inspections, we do not disassemble components and are not responsible for hidden damage or repairs. We strongly encourage a thorough inspection prior to purchase of the vehicle personally or via 3rd party to ensure satisfaction to the condition and value. Claims of "Numbers Matching" or "Original Mileage" are provided by the consignor; authenticity is not guaranteed and must be verified by the buyer. Prices exclude taxes/fees and are subject to change; availability is subject to prior sale. Shipping: Dealership is not liable for damages/delays once in a shipper's custody. Payment: Bank wire preferred. All checks held 10 business days. No credit cards. Cash payments of $10,000+ require IRS Form 8300.
Dealership Information
Rare Rides Company
Main Phone:
(980) 306-8100
Alt. Phone:
(704) 663-0432
Email:
Business Hours
Mon: CLOSED
Tue: 9:00am-5:00pm
Wed: 9:00am-5:00pm
Thu: 9:00am-5:00pm
Fri: 9:00am-5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am-3:00pm
Sun: CLOSED
Location
128 Innovation Drive
Statesville, NC 28677
Dealership Map