The all-time favourite '50s car, the 1957 Chevy Bel Air is a classic in every sense of the word. Introducing the first fuel injection system in a mass-produced American car, the '57 Bel Air also included a bored-out version of the V-8 engine, affectionately called "Turbo-Fire." It generated up to 270 horsepower when equipped with the optional four-barrel carb. And you could have 283 horses when the "Ramjet" fuel injection system was added to the mix - but the added cost of $500 was a bit pricey for most. Also optional was Turboglide - the new two-speed automatic transmission that was presented as an answer to the famed Hydro-Matic - for another $231. But the Chevy Bel Air was more than the fastest Chevy. It was also acclaimed for its meticulous workmanship, its long and elegant body, the revised suspension that delivered a superior ride and the altered gearing that enhanced acceleration. Your die-cast model captures every legendary detail and is painted in Matador Red with an India Ivory roof and Onyx Black interior - just like the priceless original.

Original sticker price: $2,757
Current value: $65,000
Production quantity: 468,736

Fast Facts:
• Still judged the best of the mid-50s classics by the editors of American Automobiles of the '50s and '60s - the authoritative text.
• First fuel injection system offered by American automaker.
• Last of super fast '50s Chevys that could carry more than two passengers.

(1996)

Scale: 1:43