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The “Crate 57” is a completely custom-built car, created specifically for MotorTrend’s 2017 Street Rodder Road Tour. Commissioned to Woody’s Hot Rodz, a specialist in high-end Tri-Five builds, this car is made entirely from new components, including a Roadster Shop chassis and a GM plug-and-play engine. From its inception as a pile of parts to its stunning completion, the build process is extensively documented with hundreds of photos on MotorTrend’s website. Originally sporting flames, the car has since been repainted in a sleek silver with airbrushed quarter panel inserts for a unique touch.
Exterior:
Licensed by GM, Woody’s Hot Rodz provided brand-new body panels for this 1957 model, ensuring no rust or damage repair was necessary. The body is finished in PPG Metallic Nickel with a urethane clear coat for an ultra-glossy shine. The quarter panel inserts feature custom airbrushing. It rides on American Legend Racer Series wheels, measuring 18×9 inches in the rear and 18×7 in the front, wrapped in high-performance Falken tires. The smoked glass, made from DOT-approved acrylic by A.M. Hot Rod Glass, adds to the car’s modern flair. The convertible top is a Hartz Stay-Fast canvas that complements the red interior. New chrome trim, weatherstripping, and custom pieces like a one-piece front bumper, custom grille, and Sherm’s Custom Plating for the stainless windshield trim complete the look. Even the turn signals are cleverly integrated into the side mirrors.
Interior:
The interior is as impressive as the exterior. Soundproofed with Dynamat, it was custom-designed by Pete Higgins Showcar Interiors. Upholstered entirely in Red Conneaut Corp Catalina II leather, it features ProCar by Scat bucket seats, custom rear seats, and a full-length center console. The dash, painted in Pull Me Over Red, includes Dakota Digital gauges. Additional comforts include a custom Autosound system and Vintage Air climate control, all topped off with Daytona weave carpet in matching red. The interior boasts luxurious details like a Lokar shifter designed to resemble a 4-speed, SPW power windows, and a Flaming River waterfall steering wheel. Chrome accents from Sherm’s Custom Plating, hidden cupholders, and ground-illuminating armrest lights add a premium touch.
Engine Compartment:
Under the hood lies a show-quality Chevrolet ZZ6 crate motor, offering 405 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. Every component is brand new, from the aluminum heads and intake to the FAST EZ fuel injection. Doug’s headers complement the engine, while a matched set of cast aluminum air cleaners and valve covers add style. Additional components like the radiator, electric fan, Wilwood master cylinder, and more were all replaced with new parts, making the engine bay a true highlight.
Trunk Compartment:
The trunk area has been just as meticulously crafted. It’s fully Dynomatted for soundproofing and features smooth, glossy paintwork on the inside lid and jambs. Upholstered with chrome accents, the trunk also houses a relocated battery and features a carpeted floor for a neat, polished look.
Underside:
The underside of the car is equally impressive. Built on a $13,000 Roadster Shop SPEC series chassis, it includes features like tubular control arms, a power rack-and-pinion steering, and adjustable AFCO coil-over shocks for both the front and rear. It’s equipped with power disc brakes at all four corners, boasting massive Wilwood calipers and drilled/slotted rotors. A custom dual exhaust with Flowmaster mufflers provides a throaty rumble, while the drivetrain includes a Hughes Performance 4L60 overdrive transmission. The satin black-finished chassis and all-new Golden Star sheet metal floors are painted silver to match the rest of the car. Added touches like remote battery terminals and a master disconnect key show the level of detail in this build.
Conclusion:
This 1957 Bel Air is a modern masterpiece built for both performance and style. It drives like a brand-new car, thanks to a no-expense-spared restoration using top-of-the-line components. Crafted by some of the best in the industry, it promises reliability, fun, and plenty of attention wherever it goes.
