Harmony of Eras: LS1 Power Unleashed in the ’57 Chevy Bel Air

This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air two-door sedan was modified circa 2010 and is powered by a 5.7-liter LS1 V8 that is equipped with a BBK SSI intake manifold and paired with a four-speed 4L60E automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential. The body has been refinished in blue with gold pinstriping and American flag graphics, and equipment includes shaved door handles, 16” American Racing Torq Thrust wheels, power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes, and chrome bumpers, in addition to a Pioneer CD head unit, Vintage Air air conditioning, power windows and door locks, and an interior trimmed in blue vinyl and gray cloth. Acquired by the seller in 2019, this modified Bel Air is now offered with service records, a car cover, and an Oklahoma title in the seller’s name.

The car has been refinished in blue accented by gold pinstriping and graphics depicting a bald eagle with an American flag in its beak. The door handles have been shaved and equipped with poppers, the windows are tinted, and chrome bumpers, trim, and dual exhaust tips accent the body. Additional exterior details include a power antenna, electric windshield wipers, a hood ornament, and dual chrome side mirrors.

American Racing 16” Torq Thrust wheels are mounted with 205/60 front and 215/65 rear BFGoodrich tires. Braking is provided by power-assisted cross-drilled discs at each corner. A hydroboost master cylinder was installed in May 2023.

Blue vinyl and gray cloth upholstery cover the front bucket seats, rear bench, and door panels. Appointments include a Vintage Air air conditioning system, a padded dashboard, a locking glovebox, a Pioneer CD stereo, and power windows and door locks.

The aftermarket steering wheel is mounted on a tilting column and sits ahead of a Classic Instruments combination gauge with a 140-mph speedometer, an 8k-rpm tachometer, and readouts for voltage and oil pressure. The six-digit odometer shows 8k miles, approximately 2,500 of which were added under current ownership. Total mileage is unknown.

The 5.7-liter LS1 V8 was installed in 2008, according to the seller, and equipped with a Spectre cold-air intake, a BBK SSI manifold, an aluminum radiator, an electric fan, and a KWiK Performance serpentine system. The battery has been relocated to the trunk, and the water pump was reportedly replaced under current ownership.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed 4L60E automatic transmission, a limited-slip differential, and a 9″ rear end with a 3.71 gear set. A 2,500-stall torque converter is equipped and that the transmission was overhauled under current ownership in December 2019.