Fantasy Junction

Description

1957 Chevrolet Corvette Fuel Injected Roadster
s/n E57S105742, Engine F817EL
Venetian Red with Polo White Coves and Venetian 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. 1957 was marked by the introduction of optional 283cid fuel-injected V8, which had the distinguished honor of being the first car to break the 1 horsepower per cubic inch mark. There were numerous other desirable options introduced around this time including tachometer, electric windows and 4-speed transmission.

This particular car is a well-optioned example that has seen a full restoration at great expense. Built in St. Louis Missouri in mid-August of 1957, it is a fuel-injected car and is reported to be one of just 379 examples with electric windows. The car also has a 4-speed transmission, tachometer, and both hard and soft tops. It was restored at a cost of approximately $200,000 by Randy Reid at Antique Auto Restoration in Seaside, California. The restoration included all mechanical system including the drive train. Correct Duntov-specification internal engine components were installed to create accurate compression ratios for a fuel injected example. The car has seen very few road miles since restoration and remains fresh in its presentation.

The high quality paint is exceptional, over very good, likely better than new bodywork. Bonding strips are present and regular within the front inner fenders. The fit and gaps are very good all around the car, with the possible exception of the trailing edge of the hood, which is slightly off. The paintwork has virtually no blemishes or wear marks. The chrome is generally excellent, with one exception light weathering to one of the tail light housing.

The engine bay is restored to as-new or better standards and largely correct in equipment. Like the engine bay, the underside is also highly detailed and indicative of a fully restored car.

The interior and trunk were also included in the restoration process and are basically spotless, and restored to original specifications throughout.

We understand that “numbers correct” examples command a premium among Corvette enthusiasts. We have closely inspected this car and have recorded the following numbers off the various components of importance:

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 “F817EL”. We know this to be a mid-year 1957 production.

Transmission: Stamped on driver’s side of main case, vertically, reads “WD1502”. A Casting on the passenger’s side of main case, reads “T10-1B”. A Casting on the tail shaft of case, on the passenger’s side, reads “T10-7B” and “W.G. DIV” and *2-18*, with “02” stamped below the DIV. We know this unit to be a 1959 production item.

Differential: A casting on the driver’s side, reads “*A190* GM” and “374 8888”. A sheet metal tag on of the passenger’s side it reads “3-70”. Under the tag on the passenger’s side a stamping reads “H1 28”. We understand this to be a 1959 production item as well.

Distributor: On the drivers side it is stamped, model “1110905”, and serial number “7028”

Fuel Injection unit: On the drivers side it is stamped serial number “1532”, part number “7014520”. This confirms the fuel injection unit is a mid-year 1957 production unit.

The car drives extremely well with all systems operation as they were intended by the factory in 1957. This is a fantastic opportunity to own one of history's most significant production Corvettes at a fraction of the restoration expense alone.

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.

Inquire About This Car

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