Featured is the 1957 Chevrolet 210. The 210 was a mid range model in Chevrolet’s 1957 lineup. The 210 model was positioned between the base offering 150 and the upscale Bel Air.
The 1957 Chevrolet was the last year of the popular Tri-Five Chevy’s which spanned from the 1955 through the 1957 model years. The Chevrolet Tri-Five automobiles were designed under the watch of legendary auto designer Harley Earl. The engineering of these models was headed by Ed Cole. The Tri-Five Chevy’s came out with an all new more modern design described below.
1957 Chevy Styling
The Chevy 210 had all the classic 1957 styling. This included pronounced tailfins, chrome accents, and a distinctive grille. Chevrolet’s 1957 was truly unique and was enthusiastically accepted by the car buying public. What was it that made the 57 Chevy a head turner? The answer includes…The twin rockets on the hood trailed back along the hood which also includes the entire front end styling.
I regards to the 57 Chevy sweeping tailfins, they embodied the spirit of the jet age which was in many cases the overall theme of 1950’s car styling. Some automakers put more of this into their styling themes where others perhaps a bit less.
The 1957 Chevrolet 210 was offered as a 2-door or 4-door sedan, wagon, or hardtop, and offered a variety engines, including the famous small-block V8.
The Chevy 210 Compared to the Bel Air
Mechanics between these two 1957 Chevrolet models was essentially the same. Differences are found in trim and features. The Chevy Bel Air, being the top model, offered more chrome trim, higher grade interior fabrics, gold accents on the grille, as well as bright aluminum panels on the rear fenders. Conversely, the 210 model had simpler trim, plainer upholstery, and fewer decorative elements. Aside from these trim differences, both the 210 and Bel Air could be ordered with similar engines and body styles, including the hardtop shown in this article.
Regarding new car price for the two models. the 57 Chevy Bel Air was priced at about $2,300 whereas the 210 was about $250-$300 lower.
1957 Chevy 210 Hardtop Specifications
Several engines were available for the 1957 Chevy. These included an 235 cubic inch Inline Six, a 265 cubic inch V-8, and a 283 cubic inch V-8.
The Chevy 283 came in several versions from 185 -250 HP with a two or four barrel carburetor. The 283 with the Ramjet fuel injection system could deliver 283 HP. The engine was a small block able to put out 1 HP per cubic inch displacement and was among the first V-8’s to do so.
A three speed Synchromesh Manual was standard with the 210 model. There were two optional transmissions which were a three speed manual with overdrive and a two speed Powerglide automatic.
Brakes are four wheel drum.
1957 Total Chevrolet production was 1,556,000 units. For the 1957 Chevrolet 210 model, the total production totaled 651,358 vehicles. Out of that number there was a total of 23,100 total Hardtop models produced. The largest produced 210 was the four door sedan coming in at 273,700 units.
References for this article includes..GM Heritage Center Collection..Hemmings Motor News..Book of Collectible Cars by the Editors of Consumer Guide..American Cars of the 1950’s by Auto Editors of Consumer Guide.
The 1957 Chevy 210, while somewhat overshadowed by the top of the line Bel Air, is a very popular collector car today. The 57 Chevy 210 Hardtop Coupe like the one featured appears to be the most popular 210 model. When we talk about current values for these classic Chevy’s, prices attained at auction are based on overall condition, mileage, history, and any modifications.
(Photos and article copyright Auto Museum Online)