1957 Chevrolet: Reader Ride

By: Andrew James, Photography by: Andrew James

Date: 02.05.2016

There's no missing Andrew James' 1957 Chev in the car park

Andrew James' 1957 Chevrolet

There is something about the tri-five Chevys (1955-56-57), with all the fins and chrome. Having previously owned early Holdens, GT Falcons and more recently a ’77 Corvette Stingray, I didn’t quite realise the popularity and romance of the ’57 until I started attending some shows. "57 Bell" is a highly popular car with a diverse range of people. The comments and photo requests I receive are amazing and I have been completely blown away with the response to it.

Originally this came to Australia in 2007 and underwent a restoration in 2013-14. It was being used as a wedding car in Newcastle before I purchased it. It has had new floor, door panels, sills etc and that beautiful candy apple paintwork.

The chrome and interior are all original and in excellent condition. Since I have owned the car, the main priorities were a front end steering and suspension overhaul, transmission, power brakes and a many, many hours fully detailing the car, including the engine bay. The paint has a magnificent polished mirror finish.

The car is airbagged and looks really tough when lowered. The running gear is a small block Chevy 383 stroker, 750 Holley, good cam with roller rockers and turbo 400 that produces in the high 400s for both torque and power.

I’ve had the car back on the road and show ready since October 2013. She won seven awards in two months, including multiple ‘People’s Choice’ and also ‘Best Presented Paint’ at the 2014 Euroa National Show & Shine.

Unique Cars magazine Value Guides

Sell your car for free right here