Price for a 57 Belair/210

[Warrior]

This past weekend I had the pleasure of receiving some information from a couple of club member. We finally desided that the car the seller has is a 1957 210 and not a Belair as he was telling me. The problem that I am having now is the gentleman now is stateing that the car is a Belair even though the VIN and Cowl tag both say it is a 210 sport coupe. Now I really do not care if it is the Belair or if it is a 210 as I would like to make a pro-street car out of it. I have been told that both inner rocker panels, 2 of the 4 floor pans, and one of the braces on the bottom of the car needs to be replaced. The car is intact and look pretty good by the photos, and I am going to fly out to see the car at the end of this week.

Now for my question (finally), what would be a fair amount for the car. He is asking 13,500.00. I really do not know a lot about these cars and could use a little help from the wiser people on this list.

Thanks again

[Bob Parmenter]

Originally posted by Warrior
The problem that I am having now is the gentleman now is stateing that the car is a Belair even though the VIN and Cowl tag both say it is a 210 sport coupe.

Sounds familiar.

Three most important considerations in valueing a car: condition, condition, and condition.

Most sellers under describe flaws: a) they're clueless about detecting them, b) they didn't think it would be important to you, c) they're dishonest

If he'll admit to the rust you've listed, there's probably more. These cars will rust frequently in the panel below the deck lid (above the bumper) and are loaded with mud (body filler); in the outer rockers (more mud); and at the lower part of the fenders. These places at a minimum.

If you're unfamiliar with what it takes to fix a car properly the costs can be astonishing. Especially if you don't have the experience and skill, tools and time, to do the work yourself. Or if you overestimate any of the above and get bogged down.

Let's look at a few things:
- Repair rust described; $2,000
- Paint car after repairs, minimum for good; 5,000
- Prostreeting the chassis, minimum 4,000
- Drive train to fit prostreet image, minimum 5,500
- Purchase of car as stated 13,500
- Total, so far, no upholstery, wheels, etc 30,000

Tri 5 chevy prices have been softening the past couple years for the "run of the mill" cars, not a lot, but some. The sellers don't like to acknowledge it, obviously (refer to above quote as example), but experienced market watchers are aware of it. It's uncertain if gasoline prices doing what they're doing right now will have any effect.

$13,500 for a six cylinder car with the problems described, and either an ignorant or dishonest seller is silly (IMHO). Especially if you have to travel to evaluate it and then transport it. Even if you drive it, there's meals, hotel (depending on distance), fuel, and who knows what else.

You live in a market loaded with nice cars, and scads of car events. Take your time, look around, ask lots of questions, talk to Tri 5 guys at shows, cruises, where ever, they often know of deals that aren't publicized and that they can't participate in at the time. Don't discount buying a well done used car that is like, or nearly like what you want to end up with. Look at the numbers above. The market spits out prostreeted '57 Chevs fairly regularly, most of the time around $20k. Yeah, that's way less than it costs to build one, that's the way the market works. You may actually be able to buy one that needs a color change, or upholstery upgrade and still come out money ahead, and be on the road quicker. And, when it comes your turn to sell (and that time nearly always comes) you won't get hurt so bad.

One last thing. If you plan on enjoying the car on the road, driving some distance from time to time, and not just a few short miles from your garage to a parking lot, then beg a drive in a prostreeted car. You'll likely learn some things you hadn't anticipated. Hint, lots of guys who used to do prostreet, like that look, are now doing what's called pro touring (major clue in that name).

[Bob Parmenter]

BTW, you're 37 years too late for a really good deal.

http://www.clubhotrod.com/forums/sho...ghlight=george

[Warrior]

Bob,

Once again, thank you for your wisdom sir. I guess I had come up with the same answer but needed to hear it from some one more wiser than myself.

Thanks again,

[cool55belair]

God advice Bob , if you like the car and it has to be something you really like ( the try 5 style) make a offer way low , he might take it but start low , it's always good not to over invest in something , you would like to get at least your money back and maybee a couple of $$$ BUY IT CHEAP! (cuz of the work that needs to be done) , I paid $1500for mine minus motor and trans but I redid the whole car.
Good luck warrior
cool

[Bob Parmenter]

Originally posted by cool55belair
God advice Bob , cool

Thanks cool, I've always had a high opinion of my advice too,,,,,,,,,,,,but not THAT high!!!!

[Warrior]

Bob & Cool,

Thanks for the good advise and information. I will keep you posted on this great adventure.

[The Al Show]

I think his price is way too high for a 6 cylinder car in that condition. Bob's Godly advice is right on. I can't think of anything to add except that I wouldn't waste my time and money going to check it out. If he's sticking with the Bel-air story he's probably going to stick to his high price. From the description you gave I would value it around $5000.