The 1957 Chevrolet 150 stands as one of the most recognizable and culturally significant American cars ever produced, representing a moment when design, optimism, and confidence converged into a shape that has never lost relevance. At this level, building a tri-five Chevy is not about nostalgia or spectacle, but about balance and execution. This example succeeds because it respects the original design while carefully modernizing every system beneath it, resulting in a car that feels resolved and complete rather than restored for the sake of restoration. Shown publicly just once after it's 2024 completion, and immediately recognized with a top honor, it is fully finished and ready for an official debut on the show circuit.
Finished in PPG Quick Sand Beige, the exterior presents with understated elegance that allows the tri-five's iconic lines to remain the focal point. Panel fit is excellent throughout, with straight surfaces and crisp transitions that remain faithful to factory proportions. The brightwork was refinished by Paul's Chrome Plating, where over $11,000 in custom chrome work was completed, producing deep, mirror-like finishes across the bumpers and trim, including custom rear fin trim that was welded into a single piece, smoothed, and finished for a seamless appearance. Subtle refinements elevate the presentation, including a one-piece front bumper and smoothed rear bumper, while 19" front and 20" rear Schott Fuel wheels fill the arches with a confident, modern stance. Michelin Pilot Sport tires measuring 245mm up front and 285mm out back, finished with a custom redline stripe, tie the contemporary hardware back to the car's classic roots.
Under the hood sits a GM LS376 crate engine rated at 533 horsepower, integrated with a clear emphasis on visual cohesion as much as performance. The engine and Vintage Air front runner system have been finished to match the red interior, tying the engine bay visually to the cabin. Custom '57-style valve covers, a vintage-inspired air cleaner, matching red intake, and a traditional breather give the bay a period-informed appearance, while Holley Sniper EFI and a PRC custom radiator with electric fans deliver modern reliability. Ceramic coated headers feed a dual-exhaust system with electric cut-outs for a ferocious sound. Power is delivered through a SST-built Tremec TKO600 5-speed manual transmission with a hydraulic clutch, back to a Strange 9" rear axle with 3.73 gearing and a limited-slip differential. All of it is built around a Roadster Shop RS Fast Track chassis, providing a modern structural foundation with power rack-and-pinion steering, C6 front spindles, double A-arm front suspension, triangulated 4-link rear, Penske coilover shocks, front and rear sway bars, and Baer disc brakes, transforming this Chevy into a composed, confident driver that operates far beyond its original capabilities.
Inside, the custom red leather interior blends modern comfort with a bespoke design approach. Upholstery, panels, carpet, and dash share a uniform tone and finish, creating a rich cabin without visual excess. Seating is supportive and properly positioned thanks to raised floors and thoughtfully integrated, power-adjustable modern seats, while the dash retains its original layout enhanced by Dakota Digital instrumentation and a billet Sparc Industries steering wheel with a leather-wrapped rim mounted to a tilting column. Power windows, along with modern amenities including an EFI management controller, Kicker Audio receiver with Bluetooth, and modern air conditioning, round out a cabin defined by bespoke design and modern capability.
Completed in 2024 and recognized with a Top 5 award at the Tri-Five Nationals, this 150 stands as a show-quality reinterpretation of an American icon. It is not a trend-driven restomod or a nostalgic exercise, but a fully realized build defined by clarity of vision and exceptional finish. Every detail feels considered and nothing is left to explain. This is a 1957 Chevrolet 150 built for owners who value quality, confidence, and a car that is fully prepared for continued show-level presentation.
Key Highlights
World Class frame-off restoration
Top 5 award at the Tri-Five Nationals
Quick Sand Beige PPG paint
Roadster Shop RS Fast Track chassis
6.2L V8 LS376 crate engine (533hp)
SST Tremec TKO600 5-speed manual transmission
Strange 9" rear axle with 3.73 gearing
Limited-slip differential
Double A-arm front suspension
Triangulated 4-link rear suspension
Penske coilovers
Baer four-wheel disc brakes
Power rack-and-pinion steering
Modern air conditioning
Custom leather interior
Kicker Audio receiver with Bluetooth capability
Power adjustable seats
Sparc Industries leather-wrapped steering wheel
All trim polished and chrome-plated
One-piece rear fin trim
