Classic Chevy's - 1957 Chevrolet - Part 3

By: Steve Farber | Posted: 05th October 2006

When Chevrolet introduced its completely redesigned cars in 1955, body styles were revised annually, giving each model year a distinct and easily identifiable look. The final phase of Chevy's three year 1955-1957 design cycle concluded with chrome and fins. One Chevy ad described the 1957 Chevrolet as "Sweet, Smooth and Sassy". The all new styling on the 1957 Chevrolet was sweet, the new turboglide transmission was smooth and the new fuel injected 283 V-8 was very sassy.

The new 1957 Chevy had visible styling changes to the grille, front and rear bumpers, quarter panels, taillights and hood ornaments. Chevy's 1957 facelift was carefully detailed for a longer and lower look. The front bumper and grille was massive across the front. The bumpers scooped across the front then flared up and out into bomb like guards similar to the 1957 Cadillac. These guards were normally flat faced but could be fitted with an optional rubber tip. In the center of the grille was a long horizontal bar with a Chevy crest and small circular parking lamps at each end. A new lower cowl line and hood increased vision. On the hood were unique twin "Hood Rockets" instead of the familiar "Hood Bird" ornaments used on the 1955 and 1956 Chevrolets. The rear fenders were reshaped into the tail fins that all 1957 Chevy fan love. At the end of the large rear bumper were half moon tail lights and optional backup lamp housings. Concealed in the driver side vertical fin was a fuel filler hinged panel. The 1957 Chevy also gained a sportier stance with the use of 14 inch wheels, instead of 15 inch wheels, leading to a slight height reduction.

The Bel Air, Two-Ten and One-Fifty models returned in 1957. Sixteen new solid colors and 15 two-tone color combinations were available on nineteen different body styles. Inside the 1957 Chevy were twenty three new seat and door trim colors combinations and a redesigned dash board. New convertible top colors were also available.

The new 1957 Chevrolet provide a lot surprises, including 8 different engine choices. However, the most surprising development of all was the introduction of fuel injection on all 19 Bel Air, Two-Ten, One-Fifty body styles. Returning was the Blue Fame six cylinder and the 265 cubic inch V-8 that were available on the '55 and '56. But Chevy also introduced a new 283 cubic inch V-8 with more horsepower and performance than ever before. The 283 was created by opening up the 265's bore by 0.11 inches. The 283 was available in 6 different versions, four with carburetors and two with fuel injection. The 283 produced 185 hp with a 2 barrel, 220 hp with a 4 barrel, 245 hp with two 4 barrels, 250 hp with fuel injection and 270 hp with two 4 barrels and a special camshaft. For the first time Chevrolet was able to develop one horsepower for each cubic inch in a V-8 fitted with fuel injection and a special camshaft. This 283 cubic inch 10.5 to 1 compression ratio engine developed 283 horsepower at 6000 rpm and was the hottest of the "Hot One's".

The 1957 Bel Air Sport Coupe is to many Chevy fans the best looking Chevy ever built. It's hard to disagree with them but all 1957 Chevrolets are in my opinion the ultimate "Classic" Chevy.

Steve Farber is an author and auto related web site publisher. Learn more about the "Hot One's"! GM's Classic 1955 Chevrolet, 1956 Chevrolet and 1957 Chevrolet at his three web sites by viewing lots of seldom seen "Vintage Chevy Ad" pictures of body styles, body colors, interior colors. Plus, engine specifications, prices and production figures. About the Author

Occupation: Web Site Publisher

Steve Farber is an author and auto related web site publisher. Learn more about the "Hot One's"! GM's Classic 1955 Chevrolet, 1956 Chevrolet and 1957 Chevrolet at his three web sites by viewing lots of seldom seen "Vintage Chevy Ad" pictures of body styles, body colors, interior colors. Plus, engine specifications, prices and production figures.

http://1957-chevrolet-alternator-conversion.com

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Tags: color combinations, inch wheels, solid colors, rear bumpers