1957 Chevy 'Hellair' Conceals A Shocking Secret Beneath Its Hood | Carscoops

      Named the Hellair, this restomod of the classic Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a manual transmission.

      This 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air has undergone a complete restoration and rebuild.

      It now boasts a 6.6-liter diesel engine, a massive turbocharger, and three pedals.

      It will be auctioned at Mecum's 2025 Glendale event later this month.

      The saying “never buy another man’s project” often rings true, except when that project is a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air featuring a powerful turbocharged diesel V8. Introducing the Hellair, a seven-year endeavor that merges vintage aesthetics with incredible torque.

      Under the hood is a 6.6-liter Duramax LMM diesel V8, paired with a six-speed manual transmission that delivers over 1,000 lb-ft (1,254 Nm) of torque to the rear wheels. And yes, it’s up for sale.

      Built for Power, Not for the Faint of Heart

      This specific project took the builder seven years to finish, starting with a frame-off restoration in Phoenix, Arizona. The team at American Legends Hot Rods and Muscle Cars opted for a 6.6-liter Duramax LMM V8 as the engine. This wasn’t a standard or salvaged engine, either.

      It was created and fine-tuned by Hausmann’s Diesel Performance. According to the listing, the diesel V8 generates 634 horsepower (472 kW) and 1,098 lb-ft (1,487 Nm) of torque. Enhancements include ARP studs, a Stroker CP3 fuel pump, Diamond pistons, and a 68mm Fleece Performance turbo. The power is transmitted to the Bel Air’s wheels via a ZF six-speed manual transmission, coupled with a cryo-treated Stage 3 clutch from South Bend.

      Style to Match the Muscle

      However, this Chevy is not just about performance; it also has significant visual appeal. The exterior is finished in Cadillac Black Diamond, while the interior upholstery is Crimson Red. The body has been stripped of door handles, emblems, hood ornaments, fender vents, and the original upper quarter trim, creating a distinctive look that stands out even among other classic vehicles and restomods.

      The interior has modern updates as well, featuring Vintage air climate control, power windows, custom Dakota Digital gauges, a concealed Bluetooth sound system with 12 JL Audio speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer. A Billet Specialties steering wheel greets the driver. This build is truly remarkable in every aspect.

      Interested in Ownership? Be Ready to Bid

      For those looking to take this powerful machine home, the Hellair Chevy will be up for auction at Mecum's Glendale 2025 auction, scheduled for March 18 to 22 at State Farm Stadium. It will officially start bidding on the 22nd—so if you have the budget (and perhaps some extra tires on hand), this could be your dream car. You can find more information here. Good luck with your bidding!