HIGHLIGHTS: Genuine VC-VIN: Authentic 1957 Bel Air V8 Convertible. Rare Factory Coronado Yellow: 803 paint code which is a highly collectible, ultra-vibrant 1957 color. Long-Term Single Ownership: Lovingly preserved in a private North Carolina collection for over 30 years. Flawless Vault-Kept Body: High-tier, six-figure quality restoration featuring laser-straight metal and incredible gapping. Period-Correct V8: Equipped with a 283ci V8 featuring dual-quad carburetors and a 3-speed manual transmission. Iconic Accessories: Fitted with a continental kit, fender skirts, and classic steel wheels with hubcaps. Time-Capsule Mileage: Less than 300 miles logged since the restoration was finalized. BODY OVERVIEW: This '57 Bel Air drop-top is the absolute definition of a showroom centerpiece. Restored to an incredibly high standard for a prominent local collector in the early 1990s, the car spent the last three decades tucked away in climate-controlled storage. The sheet metal remains remarkably straight, the stainless trim is brilliant, and the overall panel alignment mirrors a fresh build. It carries the unmistakable presence of a true six-figure restoration that has been frozen in time. PAINT CONDITION OVERVIEW: While many '57s sport the common, muted Colonial Cream, this rare convertible is finished in its factory-correct, highly sought-after shade of Coronado Yellow (Paint Code 803). The paintwork is spectacular, showing a deep glass-like reflection and mirror clarity that completely defies the age of the restoration. Because the car was immediately parked and displayed post-build, typical road rash, rock chips, and scratches are virtually non-existent. It presents exactly like a car painted yesterday, radiating a bright, vivid hue that captures the true optimism of the mid-century era. INTERIOR CONDITION OVERVIEW: The interior features a stunning, period-correct yellow and silver vinyl (Trim code 682) split-bench layout that perfectly complements the Coronado Yellow exterior. Sitting inside this car is an absolute time-machine experience; there are no aftermarket gauges screwed into the dash, no modern stereos cut into the console, and no modern modifications which leaves just pure, untouched 1957 mid-century style. All upholstery, door panels, and dash trim show beautifully with zero wear. MECHANICAL OVERVIEW: Under the iconic hood is a period-correct 283ci V8 engine fitted with a highly desirable dual-quad carburetor setup and paired with a traditional 3-speed column-shifted manual transmission. Collector Note: After being completed, this car was placed on display and has traveled fewer than 300 total miles. Because it sat idle for decades, our team recently performed a basic wake-up service to get it running. While it fires up and drives, it is currently running rough and will require a comprehensive mechanical re-commissioning (carburetor tuning and a thorough maintenance/service) to be ready for regular road use. WHAT YOULL LOVE ABOUT THIS CAR: The Rarity Factor: Striking Coronado Yellow is vastly harder to find than standard '57 colors, making it an instant standout at any national Tri-Five meet. Unrepeatable Cosmetic Condition: The body, paint, and chrome are done to a standard that would cost a fortune to replicate today. Pristine History: 30+ years in a high-end private estate collection means it has never been abused or left out in the elements. WHAT YOU MIGHT HATE ABOUT THIS CAR: Requires Mechanical Re-Commissioning: It is currently a running project that needs a weekend mechanic or shop to tune the dual-quads Convertible Top & Window Adjustments: The convertible top mechanism must be operated manually, the door glass requires alignment adjustments, and the passenger quarter glass frame is split. Minor Electrical Quirks: Typical of cars that sit, the wipers, heater blower, and temperature gauge remain inoperative, and the reverse lights stay constantly on with the key in the ignition. DOES IT NEED ANYTHING? A full mechanical tune-up to smooth out the rough idle. (Carbs were recently rebuilt) Electrical troubleshooting for the wipers, heater blower, and temp gauge. Replacement of the old tires before any highway driving. Adjustment to the driver/passenger side window tracking. WHAT BUYER IS LOOKING FOR THIS CAR? This Bel Air is built for the seasoned collector or Tri-Five enthusiast who recognizes the immense value of an authentic, rare-color VC-code convertible with a laser-straight body. If you appreciate rare factory paint codes, enjoy the process of dialing in a classic car's mechanicals, or want a jaw-dropping investment piece to anchor your garage, this Coronado Yellow beauty offers a premium foundation that cannot be duplicated for backyard money. Contact Rare Rides Company at 980-306-8100 or info@rarerides.com for more information Rare Rides Company does not collect tax, tag or title fees. Title Status: CLEAN DOES IT WORK? Air Conditioning N/A Heater NO - blower inop. Speedometer YES Odometer YES Oil PSI Gauge/Light YES Temperature Gauge/Light NO Fuel Gauge YES Tachometer N/A Wipers NO Windows YES Horn YES Radio YES (static) Headlights YES Tail Lights YES Brake Lights YES Reverse Lights YES - constant on Turn Signals YES Emergency Brake YES 4x4/AWD N/A Tire Condition: Older, need replaced Keys " Ignition YES, Door YES, Trunk YES Seatbelts Front: N/A Rear: N/A Runs & Drives YES
