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July Car In The Room
July Car In The Room by Dennis Whimp
1957 Chevrolet Belair 4 door hardtop
The 1957 Chev Bel Air is probably the most iconic and recognisable muscle car from that era. This example was brought along by Eldad Ronan who owns Rotorua Motor Works at the Old Taupo Road, Otonga Road roundabout. Eldad was the one that purchased Cliff and Shona Wickham’s garage when Cliff retired. Eldad explained that he purchased the left hand drive car some years ago when he was working in Australia. The paintwork, upholstery and chrome have not been changed as it was all in excellent condition. But all the mechanicals have had a complete overhaul or replacement. He hasn’t tallied the final cost of the rebuild, but he estimated it was two times the original purchase price, and that was with him doing most of the work. But it showed with an immaculate engine bay, a big V8 and a huge set of multibarrel carburettors. He says it is lovely to drive with light steering and good brakes. These 1957 Chevs with their chrome topped rear fins were the final refinement of the 1955 to 1957 Series two Belairs. Each year the model was refined, and the mechanicals upgraded. The final version had 283 cu inch fuel injected engines. These big block V8’s went on to be one of the most successful US race cars. The 1957 Chev Belairs won the most races of any car in Nascar history. Many thanks to Eldad for sharing the car journey and the Bel Air history.
