Value of '57 Hardtop: Questions

[Michael Jones]

An individual here in town is going to be selling a '57 hardtop. At this point I have not seen it so I do not know its condition. Some questions:

What is the range of values for tops from Good to Excellent condition?

How do I verify that it is a '57? Window date codes the only way?

Is value enhanced if the date codes on all the windows match?

If the interior color does not match my car's, is it still worth considering given that it could be spray dyed to match?

I've been told that they're difficult to find in excellent condition and are expensive to restore. Thanks for your help!

Mike

[Mike M.]

Re: Value of '57 Hardtop: Questions

good to excellent range: 1k to 3 k. Plexiglass date codes and waffle headliner common to 56 and 57 hardtops. earrly 56 hartdtop lacked the wide stainless moulding on front edg4e of hardtop where its in close proximity to windshield. value enhanced if and only if itds so nice you dod't have to replace the plexiglass and it pre-dates build date of your car.Al knoch has repro headliners or the orig one can be dyed although i personally dislike dyed vinyl no matter where the vinyl is located.Restoring a complete 56-7 hardtop: if you buy parts and do it yourself, reckon on about a grand.If you send it to Ted and his son in Pittsburg(they are the best), figure 2 to 3 x as much. good luck, mike

[Dennis C.]

Re: Value of '57 Hardtop: Questions

Michael - Just in case the windows aren't giving you all the info you want, make sure the exterior side drip rail is a single (almost sharp) piece of stainless. In about 1959, they rolled this edge and it is very smooth, unlike the 56-58. (59-60 Hartops typically sell for less - they will fit, but are not correct for your car). Best, Dennis

[Art B.]

Re: Value of '57 Hardtop: Questions

The value of '57 hardtops as risen in recent years, I think. I could have purchased a black hardtop with red headliner in excellent condition for $1000 in 1996. I am kicking myself for not getting it. Now they run more like $2000 to $3000 as stated by others. Nothing looks better than a nice, restored 1957 with a hardtop in place.