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Saturday, May 31, 2025

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Coupe for Sale – Hardtop Restored Classic with 350 V8

 

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Coupe ~ Hard Top 

Marked down to $47,995




For sale: 1957 Chevy Bel Air Hardtop Coupe with 350 V8, TH350 auto transmission, power brakes & more. Restored classic in Silver/Grey.  Views photos!



   Own a piece of American automotive history with this stunning 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop Coupe, now available in Ronkonkoma, NY. This iconic classic car has been fully restored and upgraded with a reliable 350 V8 engine, TH350 automatic transmission, and modern performance features. Finished in a striking Silver Grey metallic with a custom grey suede interior, this Bel Air turns heads on every drive. Don’t miss your chance to own one of the most beloved vintage Chevrolets ever made.



Condition          Used Clear
Mileage             80,000 miles
Engine               350 V8 with mild cam
Transmission     3spd automatic 
Drive Train        Rear Wheel Drive     

Exterior Paint    Silver
Interior              Gray Cloth
Vin#                  VC57J162001


Vehicle Overview

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Sports Coupe For Sale

Runs and Drives Better Than It Did New

350 V8 Motor with Mild Cam and Built For Reliability 

TH350 Automatic Transmission

Edelbrock 4 Barrel Carburetor

Edelbrock Aluminum Manifold

Serpentine Belt System/Front Runner Setup

Aluminum Radiator with Electric Fan

MSD Electronic Ignition

Blaster Coil

MSD Distributor 


Shorty Headers Leading to Dual Exhaust, Sounds Fantastic

New Optima Battery Re-Located to the Trunk

New Wiring

Power Steering


Power Wilwood Front Disc Brakes

Tilt Steering Wheel

16" Billet and Grey Leather Steering Wheel

Front Sway Bar

QA4 Adjustable Shocks

Tubular Front A-Arms

Chrome 5 Spoke American Racing Wheels


Silver Grey Paint With Lots of Polished Aluminum and Stainless Accents

New Tinted Glass

New Weather Stripping

Beautiful Grey Metallic Paint with TONS of Metallic

Really Nice Black and Grey Suede Interior


Retro AM/FM Radio With Bluetooth and 6x9s in the Package Tray

New Custom Dakota Digital Gauges

Added Seat Belts for Safety 


Very Comfortable to Drive and Always Been Reliable

Our Consignor is Selling it Because He Has WAY too Many Cars and is Getting Married Soon

For Sale By Owner Located In Ronkonkoma, NY 11779 

Follow This Link to High Resolution Photos 

Take a L@@k At The Video on YouTube:  

******


If you are interested or have question regarding this car please call Larry ~ 941-716-4785

 *****


For the DIY Car Enthusiasts: Keep Your Classic Shine Alive


Whether you’re restoring a vintage beauty like the Hupmobile or just keeping your daily driver looking its best, here are some top-rated detailing products on Amazon we recommend:


   Restore. Protect. Admire.

Get the pro-level shine your car deserves—right from your own garage.

*****

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost, loss of discounts, or loss of Amazon rewards to you. 


 


Monday, May 26, 2025

Restoring More Than Cars: A Lesson in Legacy and Work Ethic

I recently reached out to McKeel Hagerty of Hagerty Insurance to ask if I could share one of his articles on my blog. He graciously agreed. But before I post his piece, I’d like to offer a little background on McKeel and the Hagerty family.


Since 1984, the Hagerty family has been deeply involved in the preservation and restoration of classic cars and boats. That same year, Frank and Louise Hagerty founded Hagerty Insurance Agency in Traverse City, Michigan, with a niche focus on insuring collector wooden boats. Their son, McKeel, also embarked on a meaningful project in 1984 — a three-year restoration of a 1967 Porsche 911S with his father.


What a powerful example his father set. By involving McKeel in that restoration, he not only passed on mechanical skills but also instilled a strong work ethic and a love for craftsmanship. The article I’m about to share reflects that spirit — the importance of passing down values to the next generation, of teaching our children how to work, and how to learn.


Just imagine the lessons McKeel absorbed through that single restoration project — lessons far beyond the mechanics of a car. It was about patience, dedication, and the value of hard-earned success. A legacy, built one bolt at a time. 


Article…….

In the Rearview Mirror: The Restoration Crisis Is Building

May 12, 2025 

There are roughly 48 million enthusiast vehicles in the U.S., from supercars and American muscle to Japanese makes, SUVs, pickup trucks, and restomods. But while more and more people are into vintage rides, there are fewer and fewer people who know how to fix and restore them. Our craftspeople are retiring, often without passing along their skills. Likewise, parts are harder to come by, especially for early 20th-century cars.

I have some thoughts about how to improve this situation, but first, let me share an interview I did recently with Michael Schneider, president of McPherson College, the only U.S. school with a bachelor’s degree in Restoration Technology. In 2023, McPherson students took second-place honors at the Pebble Beach Concours for their restoration of a 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300S Cabriolet.

Q: How acute is the need?

A: It’s significant, particularly as ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s cars become classics. As interest grows in “youngtimer,” RADwood, and supercar segments, the need increases.

Q: Is the shortage felt at every level, including high-net-worth cars?

A: Definitely. Collectors want seasoned technicians. We need to bridge the gap for the less experienced to learn from those with experience or the shortage will continue.

Q: What is the worst-case scenario if skills are not passed on?

A: We will see fewer classics on the road. Our ability to develop the younger generation’s skills will be the difference between your car sitting in storage rather than at an event or on the road.

Q: How do we draw people to the field?

A: Take kids for rides in your car. Let them drive! Driving is often the spark that leads to someone going into the field. Introducing youth to our collections and events is critical.

Q: What is the role of McPherson College in meeting the need?

A: We want to expand our expertise in the industry by exposing students to modern classic projects. We also plan to grow our capacity to meet industry demand, not just in the sheer numbers of graduates but also in additional technical areas like mechanical engineering, which will be part of our automotive program in fall 2025. The car is at the center of our campus, but we need the continued support of collectors and others in the industry so we can be the pipeline to keep our cars running.

The pipeline is crucial, as I know all too well. Recently, Tony, a mechanic friend of mine, was trying to resuscitate a 1937 Packard V-12 that needed a third gear synchronizer, an obscure part—and a complex one to remanufacture. After weeks of calling his sources around the country, he found one, which was serving as a paperweight on the source’s desk. Tony said, “Sometimes you get lucky.”

While that’s a charming anecdote, it’s also a bit sad. As a community, we can do better than rely on happenstance or weeks of searching to fix and maintain our beloved cars.

Let’s crowdsource this scarcity problem—both in terms of parts and expertise. If you know of a go-to mechanic, machinist, restorer, fabricator, or upholsterer with irreplaceable skills, or a reliable parts procurer like Tony’s friend, let me know at mhagerty@hagerty.com. Please include your thoughts on what skills and trades you think are most at-risk in the classic-car world. Maybe we can figure out a way to capture the knowledge before it fades away. Maybe there is a shop or a skill that can be matched with an eager young entrepreneur on the rise, a skill set that can be recorded and preserved. Help us map out a path.

If we get enough useful suggestions, I will do my best to find a way forward.

Until next time, keep on driving!

McKeel Hagerty

*****

 Recently, at the Kimal Lumber 21st Annual Car Show, I met a young man named Cole Keen, who, like McKeel, took on a restoration project with his father. Together, they brought a 1973 Triumph TR6 back to its original condition.


Can you imagine the experiences, challenges, and lessons Cole absorbed throughout that journey? Much like McKeel years ago, Cole gained far more than a restored car — he walked away with knowledge, patience, pride, and a bond with his father that will last a lifetime.


Here is 16 year old Cole Keen with his finished project. Way to go, Cole!

 

*****

For the DIY Car Enthusiasts: Keep Your Classic Shine Alive


Whether you’re restoring a vintage beauty like the Hupmobile or just keeping your daily driver looking its best, here are some top-rated detailing products on Amazon we recommend:


   Restore. Protect. Admire.

Get the pro-level shine your car deserves—right from your own garage.

*****

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost, loss of discounts, or loss of Amazon rewards to you. 


It’s not work if you love what you do.





Friday, May 23, 2025

For Sale 1956 Porsche 356A 1600 Coupe – Mille Miglia Eligible

  

Presented By Kelly Dietrick "Exceptional Car Broker"

An authentic collector’s gem — this 1956 Porsche 356A 1600 Coupe (not a roadster or cabriolet) is Mille Miglia–eligible and already accepted for the 2025 race. Due to a scheduling conflict, the current owner is regretfully unable to participate.


SEE PHOTOS HERE 


Vehicle Details:

* Chassis No.: 56977

Engine No.: 62297

Build Date: July 13, 1956

*Color: Originally Sand Beige, now Bahia Red (official Porsche color)

*Matching Numbers: Yes (Photos of data plates, stampings included)

*Owners: Only 3 from new

*Mileage: Approx. 72,000 km

 

Documentation & Certification:

*Registro Mille Miglia Certificate – 2025 Accepted

*FICHE ACI Racing Certificate

*FIVA Passport valid through 2035

*Porsche Factory Kardex & Porsche Certificate of Authenticity (COA)

*Clean Title

 

Mechanical Highlights:

*Original Engine & Gearbox

*Original 1956 Date-Stamped Steel Wheels

*Top-End Engine Rebuilt to Original Specs with Solex 32 Carburetors

*Bottom-End Rebuilt ~7 Years Ago (Original 1600cc Specs)

*Fuel System Fully Restored

*New Brake Drums & Shoes

*Dual Circuit Master Cylinder (Mille Miglia Approved Upgrade)

 

Interior & Accessories:

*Factory-Original Porsche VDO “Wind-Up” Clock – Working

*Rally Equipment:

    *Marchal Fog Lights

    *Halda SpeedPilot

    *Rally Clock

 

Interior: Fully restored in Porsche 356 Black Leatherette (1 month ago)

*Carpeting: New German Square Weave Carpet (2 months ago)

*Two Owner Manuals (1956 – English & German)

*Porsche Factory Odometer (KM)

*Tool Roll with Full Set of Original Factory Tools*

*Painted Porsche Crest on Both Fenders (Not Decals)

*German Map Light

*Two Sets of Tires:

     *Chrome Wheels

     *Date-Matched Original Steel Wheels (1956)

*Leather Racing Straps (Included, removed for MM inspection photos)

 

Awards:

 *2nd Place – 2024 Forest Grove Concours d’Elegance

 

Price:

 * $250,000 USD

 €230,000 EUR

 * £195,000 GBP


*****


If you are interested or have question regarding this car please call Larry ~ 941-716-4785

*****


 We recommend for you "Do It Yourselfers" the following detailing products:

*Mothers Clay Bars https://ebay.us/bmdpyS

*Cerakote Paint Sealant https://ebay.us/bmdpyS

*Cerakote Trim https://ebay.us/bmdpyS


Wednesday, May 21, 2025

1954 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible ~ Presented by WeBe Autos

 1954 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible – For Sale $54,495

Located in Bedford, PA


A True Classic – Restored and Ready to Drive!


Highlights:

  • Clear Title
  • Only 13,356 Miles
  • Original Matching Numbers V8 Engine
  • 3-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Rear-Wheel Drive


Vehicle Overview:

Step back in time with this beautifully restored 1954 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible. This rare classic underwent a unique frame-off restoration and is in excellent mechanical condition.

  • Original body with mostly original paint
  • Restored matching-numbers engine – head and carburetors are correct
  • Chassis fully detailed and restored
  • Eye-catching new interior with authentic early Corvette styling
  • All gauges and AM radio are fully functional
  • Convertible top and side curtains included
  • Complete ownership history with receipts and documentation
  • Spent years cruising the scenic Hawaiian coastline
  • Starts, runs, and drives fantastic – a true head-turner


Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of American automotive history.

Ready to be loved and enjoyed!

***** 


Call Larry at (941) 716-4785 for more information.


*****


We recommend for you "Do It Yourselfers" the following detailing products:

*Mothers Clay Bars https://ebay.us/bmdpyS

*Cerakote Paint Sealant https://ebay.us/bmdpyS

*Cerakote Trim https://ebay.us/bmdpyS


All of these products are sold through eBay. If you use this website All About Detail will earn a bit of commission but at no extra cost to you. 

Friday, May 16, 2025

Classic Car Values: What Every Enthusiast Should Know

 By  Larry FitzGibbon 5/16/25


What Exactly Makes a Car “Classic”?

While definitions vary, most classics are 20+ years old and offer historical, aesthetic, or cultural significance. They might have defined an era, introduced new technology, or simply been unforgettable to drive. Think: 1965 Mustang Fastback, 1971 Dodge Challenger, or the iconic 1970 Dodge SuperBee. 



5 Key Factors That Drive Classic Car Value


1. Originality

Enthusiasts love cars that are as close to factory spec as possible. That means original paint, trim, engine, and even interior. “Matching numbers” (where the engine and transmission match the car’s original VIN) can significantly boost value. On some models matching body panels boost its originality/value.  

Tip: Documented originality often wins over flashy restorations—especially with rare models.


2. Rarity Limited production numbers, special editions, or rare factory options make a car more collectible. For example, a ’69 Camaro Z/28 is common, but one with the JL8 disc brake option? That’s special.


3. Condition

Whether it’s a mint-condition survivor or a tastefully restored cruiser, condition matters. Buyers look for well-maintained drivetrains, clean bodywork, and solid undercarriages. But don’t be afraid of patina—sometimes a little wear adds character.

4. Provenance & Story

Cars with documented history, famous owners, or racing pedigrees often command a premium. Even a detailed restoration log or original dealer invoice can add to a car’s appeal.

5. Cultural Relevance

Sometimes, value is about nostalgia. Cars that appeared in movies, defined youth culture, or inspired generations—think DeLorean DMC-12, Toyota Supra Mk4, or even the VW Bus—tend to remain hot.

Rising Stars: Watch These Models

The collector scene is shifting. As Gen X and Millennial enthusiasts become the primary buyers, ‘80s and ‘90s cars are rising fast

  • Acura NSX (1st gen) – Exotic looks, bulletproof reliability.
  • Toyota Supra Mk4 – Turbo, tuner legend, Fast & Furious fame.
  • BMW E30 M3 – The OG sport sedan.
  • Mazda RX-7 FD – Rotary magic and timeless design.

These are the classics of tomorrow—available now if you move fast.


Buy with Your Heart, Not Just a Calculator

Classic cars can be investments, but they’re best appreciated on the road, not just in spreadsheets. The best advice for any enthusiast: buy what you love. Whether it appreciates or not, you’ll enjoy every drive, every detailing session, and every car meet conversation.

Final Thoughts


If you’re a car enthusiast, chances are you’ve dreamt of owning a classic—whether it’s a ‘60s Mustang, an air-cooled Porsche, or that JDM legend from your youth. Classic cars aren’t just about horsepower and chrome—they’re about emotion, craftsmanship, and the stories they carry. But whether you’re eyeing your first project or adding to your collection, it pays to understand what gives a classic its value.

Classic car values are influenced by more than numbers—they’re shaped by passion, nostalgia, and the stories we share. If you’re thinking about buying, restoring, or even just daydreaming, keep your eye on the market—but follow your gut.

After all, the best classic is the one that puts a smile on your face every time you turn the key.


Some of our favorites blue ones: 




Want more enthusiast insights, restoration tips, and classic car spotlights? .......Subscribe to this blog or follow us on Instagram/ Facebook. 

*****

For the DIY Car Enthusiasts: Keep Your Classic Shine Alive


Whether you’re restoring a vintage beauty like the Hupmobile or just keeping your daily driver looking its best, here are some top-rated detailing products on Amazon we recommend:


   Restore. Protect. Admire.

Get the pro-level shine your car deserves—right from your own garage.

*****

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost, loss of discounts, or loss of Amazon rewards to you. 

“Before You Buy or Restore a Classic Car: 5 Essential Steps Every Collector Should Know”

Thinking of Buying or Restoring a Classic Car? Do This First.  Whether you’re eyeing a beautiful barn find or planning a full frame-off re...

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