Fantasy Junction

Description

1957 Chevrolet Corvette Dual Quad 270hp
s/n E57S102634 Engine no. F227EG
Onyx Black with Silver Coves and Daytona Red Interior

Among the first generation Corvettes, 1957 was a very special year. The Corvette had received its first facelift the year before, which dramatically enhanced the success of the model, which had not been terribly successful up until that point. In 1957 a buyer could have chosen to have a single four barrel carburetor, dual four barrel carburetors or the fuel injected option. The dual quad option proved to be more popular than Chevrolet had planned for and it was in short supply, but still very few were made. The end result is that out of the 6,339 Corvettes built for 1957, less than half were fitted with dual quads. The fuel injected cars did have a bit more power, but ended up being more expensive to fix and to maintain. So, in just five short years, the Corvette had gone from a six-cylinder powered road car to a high-performance and well-balanced machine that was at home on the street as well as the track.

s/n E57S102634 is a spectacular example of the Corvette heritage, a 1957 finished in Onyx Black with Inca Silver side coves that is also fitted with the optional dual quad V-8 that is original to this car as well as its original four speed manual transmission. The restoration work appears to have been extremely comprehensive, likely addressing both the mechanical systems as well as the cosmetic aspects, although we do not have records to confirm exactly what was performed.

Its gleaming black finish carries a mirror shine and it still retains its matching hard and soft top. Styling for the Corvette in 1957 was a carry-over from 1956 from the brilliant design work of GM stylist Bob Cadaret. New for 1957 was that the inset side coves could now be finished in a contrasting color, an option that set the buyer back a mere $19.40. Cadaret’s design work had also brought the Corvette up to modern standards with outside door handles and roll-up windows. All of these styling cues are nicely displayed in this splendid example that looks and performs as a Corvette should. The interior of this fine Corvette is also a marvel of authenticity with pleated red vinyl, a beautifully styled dashboard, and authentic four-speed transmission. All factory gauges are intact and perform just as they should. Slipping behind the wheel of this spectacular car gives one the power and feel of a true American legend as only the Corvette could.

If the contrasting Onyx Black paint and red interior aren’t enough, the heart of this American icon is the 283 cubic-inch V-8 with rare dual quad option. Chevrolet and GM’s Rochester carburetor division were credited with the design, which turned the Corvette into one of the most powerful cars on the market. The engine compartment of this example is nicely detailed, has a very correct appearance, and will likely show well at any concours event.

We understand that component numerology are important details for Corvette enthusiasts. The following cast and stamped numbers appear on the various components of the car:

• Engine block: On the driver’s side, at the rear, a casting number reads “3731548”. On the passenger’s side, at the front, a stamping reads “F227EG”, noting a solid lifter 283/270hp, 548 block, Flint Plant, February 22nd, 1957, EG= 270HP.
• Transmission: This particular car has a T-10 with the following casting numbers “T-10 1B” on the main case, and “T-10 7B” on the tail housing, with a stamped “Q1” below the “T-10 1B” on the main case, right side.
• Carburetors: 2626-S front, and 2627-S rear are 283/245hp units from 1957, but not original to the 270HP engine application.
• Valve covers: 7 fin valve covers.
• Radiator: 57B, Feb. 1957, and is correct.
• Headlights: “T-3”, correct for a 1957 Corvette.
• Spare Wheel: Not present.
• Hard top: Unrestored

The Chevrolet Corvette is perhaps one of the most iconic cars ever built. What started as a frivolous dream back in 1953 has become the standard by which most of the world’s sports cars are measured. This example with its stunning colors, fabulous interior, and rare dual quad option is a Corvette that stands alone at any show. For the true connoisseur of America’s best, this is a Corvette that deserves to be shown in the finest collection, yet by virtue of its 1957 build date, offers the opportunity for high-performance touring on the open in numerous road rally events in North America as well as Europe.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608