It can be fascinating to look at a classic from one country and assess how its potential value is impacted when it finds its way to foreign shores. That is the story of this 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Coupe. It bid farewell to its native country and has hit the market on the opposite side of the globe. Its presentation is faultless, suiting the most meticulous buyer. The seller listed it here on ebay. in Heidelberg Heights, Victoria, Australia. They set their BIN at A$126,900 with the option to make an offer.
The seller states this Bel Air recently underwent a frame-off restoration, with no aspect escaping their attention in the quest for perfection. The laser-straight panels wear the Code 811 combination of Tropical Turquoise and India Ivory. Potential buyers must check the Tag to confirm it is original, which is a consideration when assessing this classic’s potential value. As most readers know, originality in a restoration will help any classic to command a premium price. I’ve consistently rated this color combination as the nicest offered by Chevrolet in 1957. The paint shines beautifully and appears flawless across the entire vehicle. The seller’s build process included a frame restoration and applying the correct red oxide paint to the floors. As with the exterior, it is hard to find fault with its condition. The bright trim pieces sparkle in as-new condition, and the glass is crystal clear. The steel wheels wear the correct hubcaps and are wrapped in whitewall tires.
Powering this Bel Air is the iconic 283ci V8, with the original owner adding the two-speed Powerglide transmission, power steering, and power brakes to the equation. That sweet V8 should produce 185hp, and although this classic rolled off the line before the muscle car sector existed, its ability to cover the ¼-mile in 18.7 seconds before hitting a top speed of 104mph was impressive for any car from this era that could comfortably seat six people. Although the seller supplies no information about how this Chevy runs or drives, the engine bay presentation suggests the news should be positive. Adding to the car’s appeal, it comes with a known and documented ownership history.
The best term I can think of to describe this Bel Air’s interior is jaw-dropping. It is trimmed in the Code 673 combination of Turquoise vinyl and Black cloth. Examining the supplied photos indicates it is in fantastic condition. There is no evidence of wear on the upholstered surfaces, with the same true of the wheel. The painted surfaces shine impressively, and the gauges feature clear markings and lenses. If the exterior chrome appears in as-new condition, the interior bright trim continues that theme. The seller added seatbelts for improved safety and a retro-style aftermarket stereo for entertainment on the road. Otherwise, this interior remains as its creators intended.
American readers may choke at the BIN figure for this 1957 Bel Air. However, it is worth considering the prevailing exchange rate to assess how its migration has impacted its potential value. The BIN is listed in Australian dollars, representing a figure of approximately US$85,800. That price is about 18% above what an equivalent car would fetch on its native soil. Chevrolets of this caliber will always command a premium in the Australian market because General Motors’ decision to focus on the domestic Holden brand means that the country never received these vehicles when they were new. Thirty-five people are watching the listing, demonstrating this classic has generated some interest. Will one of them hit the BIN button and treat themselves to an early Christmas present? I won’t be surprised if they do.
