1957 Chevrolet 150 2-door Sedan “Black Widow Clone”
L2021.0001.0012, Savoy Collection
Engine: 283 cu. in. (4.6L) Cast-iron block, OHV, Fuel-injection
Output: 283 HP
Transmission: 3-Speed Manual
Wheelbase: 115 in.
Overall Length: 200 in.
Weight: 3, 168 lbs.
Top Speed: 130 MPH+
No. Produced: undetermined
Original Price: unknown
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Following a crash at Le Mans in 1955, Congress was pressured to clamp down on auto racing. In response, the Automobile Manufacturers Association agreed to self-police. Advertising race results, providing pace cars, promoting race cars, and other marketing activities were banned. Officially, it appears the auto industry voluntarily withdrew from racing, but looks were deceiving. Public perception and reality were two different things.
Chevrolet established the Southern Engineering Development Company, unofficially based out of Nalley Chevrolet in Atlanta, GA. An unspecified number of 1957 Chevy One-Fifty Utility Sedans, painted black and white, were retrofitted with speed equipment. A manual was distributed to dealerships that provided instructions on converting the stock Chevy into a fully equipped NASCAR race car. This vehicle, known as a “Black Widow” clone, is equipped with a 502 cubic-inch engine and a 4-speed transmission.