Frame-Off Restored '57 Bel Air Restomod 6.0L LS V8 Automatic A/C Coilovers

Few cars embody American design quite like Chevrolet's Tri-Five lineup, and the 1957 Bel Air remains its crown jewel. It's the shape that defined a decade and the style that continues to set the bar for timeless automotive cool. This particular Bel Air takes that familiar silhouette and reimagines it as a true driver's machine, blending classic looks with modern performance and comfort. With LS power, a 4L60E transmission, Scott's Hotrods suspension, Wilwood brakes, and a fully finished custom interior, it's a car that brings old-school appeal into the modern age without losing its soul.

Finished in a glossy interpretation of its correct Imperial Ivory, the body showcases straight, clean panels with crisp reflections and tight fitment throughout. While most Tri-Fives lean on bold two-tones and loud metallics, this one keeps it simple. The clean white finish lets the car's lines do the talking, showing confidence through restraint. Every signature detail is accounted for: polished bumpers, gold Bel Air badging, hooded headlights, and the unmistakable tailfins that helped make this model a design icon. Polished stainless trim outlines the glass and side spears, while traditional rocker shields and clean chrome accents complete a look that balances classic design with refined execution.

Under the hood, a 6.0L iron block LS V8 delivers dependable power with a clean, purposeful setup built for real-world use. The engine features lightweight 862 aluminum heads that, when paired with the 6.0L block, create a slight compression bump and strong low-end torque. It's topped with a fabricated aluminum intake, billet throttle body, and Pertronix Flame-Thrower coil packs mounted to custom valve covers. Exhaust flows through stainless steel headers into a full dual system with polished tips. A billet serpentine drive keeps the accessories tight and organized, while a Performance Rod & Custom aluminum radiator with dual Spal electric fans maintains consistent cooling.

Power travels through a 4L60E 4-speed automatic transmission to a 10-bolt rear axle with 3.73 gears. The chassis has been completely upgraded with modern hardware, including Scott's Hotrods independent front suspension with tubular control arms, Aldan coilover shocks, and a 4-link rear setup that replaces the original leaf springs. Power rack-and-pinion steering provides direct response, while Wilwood disc brakes at all four corners are managed by a Wilwood master cylinder and adjustable proportioning valve. Billet Specialties Speedway wheels, 18x7 up front and 20x10 out back, complete the stance.

Inside, custom black and white houndstooth upholstery sets a bold tone across the reclining TMI bucket seats, door panels, and matching trunk trim. The dash retains its classic shape but now houses Dakota Digital gauges, controls for modern air conditioning, and a Custom Autosound stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity. Polished accents and stainless trim trace the dash and custom center console, which includes cupholders. A Flaming River waterfall steering wheel sits on a tilt column for easy comfort, while the trunk has been finished to the same level of detail as the rest of the interior.

This Bel Air isn't about chasing trophies or hiding behind chrome. It's about creating a car that looks right, drives right, and feels right. It brings the reliability of modern engineering to one of the most recognizable shapes in American automotive history, offering a balance of comfort, performance, and timeless presence. The essence stayed the same. The execution moved forward.

Key Highlights

* Impressive Bel Air resto-mod that's the product of a detailed, ground-up build
* 6.0L iron-block LS V8
* 4L60E 4-speed automatic transmission
* 10-bolt rear axle with 3.73 gearing
* GM 862 aluminum heads
* Fabricated intake manifold
* Scott's Hotrods front suspension
* Aldan American coil-over shocks
* 4-link rear suspension with coil-over shocks
* 18" front and 20" rear Billet Specialties Speedway wheels
* Stainless dual exhaust with stainless headers and MagnaFlow mufflers
* Modern air conditioning
* Power rack-and-pinion steering
* Wilwood 4-wheel disc brakes
* Custom Black Houndstooth interior
* Custom center console
* TMI bucket seats
* Custom AutoSound audio with Bluetooth connectivity
* Correct Imperial Ivory paint