So along with the Art Gerrick T-based lakes modified, we wanted to highlight another unusual, yet awesome, vehicle set to cross the block at RM’s upcoming Icons of Speed and Style auction: the Deal’s Wheels 2/3-scale 1957 Chevy.
Designed by Dave Deal (who also had a hand in designing the Cheetah Transporter), the show rod was built by Jim Allen for Revell to promote the line of Deal-designed 1/25-scale model kits. From the RM catalog description:
(Est.) 200 hp, 265 cu. in. Chevrolet V8 engine, four-barrel carburetor mounted within a non-functional GMC-style supercharger, GM Muncie four-speed manual transmission, straight front axle with leaf springs and tubular shock absorbers, 9-inch Ford rear end with leaf springs, and rear-wheel brakes.
Body Length: 135″
Best known for his copious artwork in publications including Hot Rod and CARtoons, the late Dave Deal inspired many thousands of car-crazy children of all ages with a multitude of funky automotive caricatures during the 1960s and 1970s. Built as part of a series of four similar cars for show duty to promote Revell’s “Deal’s Wheels” series of 1:25 scale model kits during the early 1970s, “57 cHEVY”, the unique vehicle offered here, is a running and driving 2/3-scale show rod in the style of a 1957 Chevrolet “gasser”. In fact, the kits were so successful and highly coveted, that Revell re-issued the model series in the early 1980s as the “Funsters” series, to the delight of legions of scale modeling enthusiasts.
Originally built by Jim Allen, this incredible creation is based on a 2 ¾-inch boxed steel frame with high-quality construction and welding in evidence throughout, with a rear-hinged, flip-top fiberglass body similar to those of the funny cars of the era. This vehicle can actually be driven, albeit with very cramped seating for up to two people. It is powered by a 265 cubic inch Chevrolet V8 engine equipped with Corvette valve covers, fender-exit headers, a non-functional GMC-style supercharger, and an Enderle-style “bug catcher” hat that conceals the carburetor. While the blower is non-functional with no internal components, its crankshaft-driven belt turns with the engine, and produces a muted “blower whine” sound effect. The considerable power output is sent to a pair of very fat “Good Boot” rear tires by a GM Muncie four-speed transmission, a stubby driveshaft, and a 9-inch Ford rear end. In addition, the battery and radiator are located at the rear of the vehicle, behind the seats.
While the exterior finish does exhibit some fading and spider webbing in higher-stress areas, and the brightwork is no longer show-quality, this unique vehicle nonetheless remains in its original, untouched, and as-built form. Most importantly, the “57 cHEVY” includes a pair of stout-appearing wheelie bars, which are a necessity given its short wheelbase and high power-to-weight ratio. Sure to stop traffic wherever it is shown, this 2/3-scale show rod is truly a fitting link to the inspired creative genius of Dave Deal, one of the most-beloved automotive artists of the 20th Century.
It’s about time Dave Deal started getting his due. RM estimates the nearly-life-size toy will sell for $20,000 to $40,000. Now, where are the other four cars?
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