We talk about opportunities a lot in the old car world, but this '57 Chevy Bel Air hardtop certainly qualifies. It's a nicely-done build that's still got a lot of eyeball appeal, and if you look at the hardware, the overall look, and particularly the price, then you'll see that there's definitely upside to putting this handsome bowtie in your garage.You have to admit that the look is high-impact and it totally works. Taking advantage of the Bel Air trim is a natural, and the bright yellow finish gives it an up-to-date look that isn't a rehash of the pastel '50s and that definitely makes this Chevy stand out in a crowd. Of course, a few skillful deletions really smooth it out, including the hood ornament, door handles, and a few bits of script here and there. You'll also dig the totally customized "bullets" on the hood, which take the original look and give it a pretty good twist. The work was done a few years and shows a few signs of age, but looking past a few flaws you'll find decent gaps, good attention to detail, and familiar sheetmetal. None of the critical '57 Chevy styling cues were altered, so it still has a look everyone agrees on and the remaining trim was nicely refinished with the rest of the car. Someone obviously spent good money on the chrome and stainless, with new front and rear bumpers, fresh emblems all around, and restored inserts on the quarters. OK, we'll admit that the diamond-tufted interior isn't everyone's cup of tea, but you can't argue that it isn't distinctive and if you dig the look, there's a lot of other stuff to like inside. That's the original bench up front and the upholstery remains in very good condition, a testament to the high-quality workmanship. Factory gauges are still doing their thing in the three-pod instrument panel, joined by a trio of auxiliary dials under the dash, just ahead of the Lokar shifter, and a tach up top. The steering wheel is a convincing replica of the original, now wrapped in leather and it's parked on top of a tilt steering column that makes it easy to get comfortable. An aftermarket A/C system hangs under the dash and there's a newer AM/FM/cassette stereo head unit in the dash, so it's totally set up for cruising at a moment's notice. The trunk is pretty stock, including a rubber mat, and includes a space-saver spare that's always a good idea on a car that's going to get driven.The engine is a 350 cubic inch GM crate motor, which makes big power without any hassles . Topped by an Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor and open-element air cleaner, the engine bay is functional and gets all the important stuff right. There's a Weiand intake manifold, HEI ignition system, and a big aluminum radiator up front. Brand new power steering and brake systems improve day-to-day drivability, while the TH350 3-speed automatic transmission makes it easy for anyone to drive. A custom dual exhaust system with electric cut-outs barks out a fantastic soundtrack and the stock rear end is still at work out back. It's been driven and enjoyed, of course, but the hardware is in good order and ready to rock. The stance looks right, and the modern-tech 17-inch Rally wheels wear 245/45/17 performance radials for just the right look.It's not a trailer-queen, but you can easily see how this car could go to the next level for not a lot of cash, or just drive and enjoy like it is! Finished 1957 Bel Air hardtops aren't often this affordable. Call today!