1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible
Engine: V-8
Displacement: 283 Cubic Inches
Horsepower: 220 BHP
Cost New: $2,511
         Easily one of the most recognizable cars ever made, the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is one of America's best and most loved cars. From the gold-plated grill to its fins, the 1957 Bel Air immediately brings forth an image that is all-American. Although Ford outsold Chevrolet in 1957, the '57 Chevy has been the "most popular used car in history." Every teenager in the 1960s wanted a car like this, and the legend was born.
         The Bel Air nameplate was first introduced in 1953, but had its stride with the Tri-Fives (1955, 1956 and 1957). Each year had changes to the body style, and the horsepower was steadily increased. Offered in three trim levels, the base-model 150, the mid-range 21, and the upscale Bel Air. In 1957, the Bel Air had an integrated front bumper with a gold anodized grill and "Bel Air" body script. Instead of the typical hood ornament, the '57s had twin "windsplit" ornaments. The rear of the car had the only true vertical tail fins to appear on a Chevrolet. The ribbed two-tone silver anodized aluminum side panels were standard on the Bel Air, and an option on the 210.
         The larger 283 CID V-8 was available in six different variations ranging from 185 to 283 horsepower, and were available in any Chevrolet. This was also the first time Chevrolet offered a fuel-injected version to compliment its two- and four-barrel carburetors.