1957 Dodge Custom Royal Convertible

Wrapped in Virgil Exner's Forward Look design, the 1957 Dodge Custom Royal Lancer Convertible was boldly hailed by the company's marketing department as the best and most beautiful automobile yet created. The vehicle's profile was long and low with aviation-inspired design cues. Jet-Age-inspired elements included the triangular 'Flightsweep' tail fins, 'twin jet taillamps,' and high-contrast 'Scope Sight' instrumentation. The performance specification complemented the bold styling with its brand-new suspension and a selection of potent V-8 engine and transmission combinations. Dodge's 'Torsion-Aire' suspension used an independent torsion-bar system with ''anti-dip'' upper and lower control arms, shock absorbers, and an anti-roll bar.

The D-500 performance package on the Custom Royal used the standard 325 cubic-inch V-8 engine with a pair of Hemi cylinder heads, new pistons, hydraulic valve lifters, dual exhaust system, and Carter four-barrel carburetor. Output increased by nearly ten percent over the base engine, to 285 bhp. Of the 2,456 Custom Royal Lancer Convertibles produced for 1957, it is estimated that fewer than 125 examples were given the D-500 performance package.

This particular 1957 Custom Royal Lancer D-500 Convertible is an unrestored example that is finished in Halo Blue and Sapphire White exterior with a matching polychrome interior and white convertible top. The interior has a D-500-specific, twin-spoke steering wheel with a push-button radio and Torqueflite control modules. A previous owner treated the car to mechanical sorting and sympathetic cosmetic detailing.

Factory options include an under-dash heater, power steering, and power brakes. The standard steel wheels have chromed full-size covers and period-style wide whitewall tires.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2024