1957 Chevrolet 210 Townsman

Description

Wait, don't skip this incredible 1957 Chevy 210 wagon because of first impressions! This isn't just another survivor, look closely and you'll find a restored '57 Townsman that only looks a little worn on the outside due to its original, factory skin, and that is perhaps its greatest trick. But it also offers newer mechanicals and options, a gorgeous custom interior, and a look that will get peoples' attention more than any shiny paint job ever could.

Yes, that slick, patina-kissed paint job is the original Adobe Beige top and Sierra Gold bottom combination that this Townsman was born with. It's perfectly imperfect in every way, with a soft shine that still manages to peek through under our photo booth lights and out in the sunshine, attracting plenty of attention out on Main Street. Sure, it has its fair share of bumps and bruises that have been acquired through the years, and the texture isn't as silky smooth as it was in '57, but the finish goes beyond just having great character. It's still very presentable in person, and the period-perfect color combination looks as en vogue today as it did when it was new. The original sheetmetal is pretty darn straight, and the gaps are still close to being factory set, and if you love wagons, then there aren't many more desirable than a Tri-5. To that point, everything is stock on this car (sans the wheels), including all the chrome and stainless trim on the body, the soft-tinted glass on all the wrap-around windows, the iconic front grille, and even the emblems. And the boxy, 4-door style of the utilitarian Townsman works in a wonderful contrast against the otherwise elegant 210 profile trim, resulting in an awesome juxtaposition that's very memorable. It might be somewhat strange to say, but this is one of the coolest '57 Chevys we've ever seen.

While the body has been weathered through the years to look a bit tired, there are no such illusions inside, where a recently installed custom interior in matching colors and upgraded materials has been installed. The sculpted split-front bench seat and matching rear seat wear high-end, two-tone Copper and Beige vinyl that looks factory-fresh, there are matching door panels at the flanks, and the floors are covered in high-end, thick-cut and durable pile carpets that match the color scheme inside the cab. And because the entire cabin was first covered with sound barrier materials under the carpets, the wagon feels tight and insulated from the outside elements. The original two-tone dash was completely restored and filled with Dakota Digital gauges that keep an accurate eye on the V8 under the hood. The original steering wheel was restored and really looks great as the anchor-point of the cabin, and yes, that's a column shifter that manages the updated 700R4 4-speed automatic transmission below - making this wagon not only practical, but very easy to drive. A full Vintage A/C system was installed under the dash and it blows ice-cold air into the cabin, while a Retrosound AM/FM/AUX was installed directly into the factory slot and provides the entertainment. The rear seat is a perfect match and it looks like it's never been used, while the cargo bay was finished like it was destined for the show field using more Copper carpets that have been beautifully bound for a perfect fit.

The engine is a reworked 283 cubic inch Chevy V8 that looks right at home in the 210's engine bay covered in Chevy Orange enamel on the valve covers and block itself. A few dress-up items give it a period hot-rod feel, and there's a big aluminum radiator keeping things cool. For safety, there's a dual master cylinder and power brake booster, an alternator makes the electricity, a modern compressor uses R134a refrigerant, and it barks through a pair of Flowmaster mufflers for a throaty, performance sound. Power front disc brakes means the big wagon can stop on a dime, and power steering help it maneuver down the streets with ease. Note how solid that chassis really is, further evidence that this 210 has always lived a rather easy life, and the suspension was upgraded with modern shocks and springs that improve handling and set that wicked stance. And speaking of that stance, it's quite the eye-catcher, with 18-inch American Racing Torque Thrusts up front and matching 20-inch rims in the rear - all wrapped in sporty blackwall radials that tuck in perfectly into the wheel wells.

Impressive doesn't even begin to cover this car, which was preserved to look old original yet is erupt for the rigors of the modern road. Call today!