This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible was built with a clear objective: preserve the unmistakable presence of a Tri-Five while delivering the performance, comfort, and reliability of a modern high-end cruiser. The result is a no-compromise restomod that blends timeless design with serious mechanical capability, finished and detailed to a level that still holds up years after completion.
The body was taken through a comprehensive, ground-up restoration and finished in deep, glossy black two-stage paint. Panel fit is tight, surfaces are flat, and the car presents with a refined, deliberate stance that makes a statement. Chrome and stainless trim are tastefully retained and well executed, including the Bel Air side spears, brightwork, and bumpers. Modern lighting elements are subtly integrated, and the cloth convertible top fits cleanly without distracting from the car's classic lines. Schott Mach V wheels, measuring 18" up front and 20" in the rear, give the car a modern stance and look amazing on the timeless design.
Under the hood sits a GM 7.0L LS7 V8 rated at 505 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, bringing genuine supercar-level output to a platform that originally made a fraction of that. Long-tube headers feed a stainless exhaust system with Magnaflow mufflers, giving the car a deep tone. Power is routed through a 4L80E 4-speed automatic transmission to a Ford 9" rear axle with 3.50 gearing and limited-slip differential, all mounted in a powder-coated Art Morrison chassis. The suspension setup replaces the original architecture with tubular control arms, adjustable coilovers, and a four-link rear, paired with power rack-and-pinion steering. Power-assisted Wilwood four-wheel disc brakes provide confident stopping power.
The red leather interior was custom-built by Steve Holcomb of Pro Auto Custom Interiors and reflects the same balance of classic influence and modern execution. Custom leather bucket seats offer power adjustment up front, while the dash retains a familiar layout enhanced by Classic Instruments gauges and Vintage Air climate control for modern air conditioning. A full-length center console houses a Lokar shifter, power window and top controls, cupholders, and a modern touchscreen audio system with Bluetooth capability. It's an upscale interior that is cohesive and show-worthy.
This Bel Air Convertible represents a fully realized Tri-Five restomod, thoughtfully executed from the chassis up and finished with purpose. It delivers modern performance, comfort, and drivability without losing the character that made the 1957 Bel Air an icon in the first place. For the buyer seeking a high-quality, turn-key classic that can actually be enjoyed on the road, this one checks every box.
Key Highlights
Frame-off restoration
7.0L GM LS7 V8
GM 4L80E 4-speed automatic transmission
Ford 9" rear axle with 3.50 gearing
Limited-slip differential
Modern air conditioning
Power rack-and-pinion steering
Power Wilwood 4-wheel disc brakes
Art Morrison chassis
Double A-arm front suspension
4-link rear suspension
Adjustable coilovers
18" and 20" Schott Mach V EXL wheels
Custom leather interior by Steve Holcomb of Pro Auto Custom Interiors
