1957 Corvette "Family Affair"
The story
The “Family Affair” 1957 Corvette was built for Charity’s dad—Dave’s father-in-law—as a heartfelt thank-you for a lifetime of support and love. From the beginning, the goal was simple: create something he could truly enjoy during retirement and establish it as a lasting Kindig family heirloom. In 1982, he completed an at-home restoration himself, repainting the car and reupholstering the interior. That same year, he entered it in the Salt Lake City Autorama, where it earned 2nd place. Decades later, after a full restoration, the Corvette returned to the Autorama stage and was awarded “Utah’s Finest” at the 2018 Salt Lake City Autorama—a true full-circle moment for the entire family.
Engine & Transmission
Powering this Corvette is a Lingenfelter LS7 engine producing an impressive 670 horsepower, delivering modern performance with unmistakable presence. The engine is backed by a GM 4L80E automatic transmission from Bowler Transmission, providing smooth and reliable power delivery. Topping the LS7 is Borla eight-stack fuel injection, while a full stainless exhaust system and mufflers from Borla give the car its aggressive, one-of-a-kind sound. A Billet Specialties Tru Trac accessory drive completes the engine package with both function and visual refinement.
Chassis
The Corvette rides on an Art Morrison chassis featuring a custom independent front suspension and a Ford 9-inch rear axle supplied by Strange Engineering. Stopping power comes from 13.5-inch Wilwood brakes with six-piston calipers, ensuring confidence-inspiring performance. All fuel and brake lines were custom fabricated from polished stainless steel, adding durability and a high-end finish underneath the car.
Body Modifications
Significant restoration and refinement work transformed the body into a seamless, modernized version of the classic design. A new front clip and rear quarter panels were supplied and installed by Corvette Image, returning the body to proper form. Subtle modifications were intentionally discreet, including pulling the front and rear bumpers tight into the body and shaving all visible exterior hardware. The exhaust tips passing through the rear bumper were enlarged to three inches while maintaining a factory-correct appearance. Custom headlamp assemblies from Greening Auto Company feature threaded trim rings with no exposed hardware, H4 Maxtel bulbs, and hidden turn signals. The factory front fender turn signal housings were removed for a cleaner look. Kindig-it smooth classic door handles were installed, along with a new gas cap replacing the ill-fitting original gas door. Countless hours were spent smoothing the body, and all chrome components were finished in triple-plate show chrome by Ogden Chrome.
Paint
The final finish was achieved using AkzoNobel’s Black Hole Black, applied through the Modern Classikk by Kindig paint system. The deep black finish was perfected with hundreds of hours of polishing to ensure a mirror-like result worthy of a Kindig-it Design build.
Interior
Inside, the Corvette blends classic styling with modern comfort and technology. The interior is trimmed in China Red leather by Crestleather and features a Vintage Air air-conditioning system for drivability in any climate. Electrical systems were modernized using an American Autowire wiring harness, while Dakota Digital first-issue HDX gauges provide a clean, contemporary display. Power windows are handled by Nu-Relics, and a Lokar shifter and trim enhance both function and appearance. Entertainment comes from a Kicker audio system, and the steering wheel is a modified Koch’s 15-inch 1955 Bel Air unit, adding a personal and nostalgic touch.
Wheels & Tires
The Corvette rolls on one-off 19-inch and 20-inch wheels designed by Dave Kindig and built by Billet Specialties. Michelin Pilot tires from The Tire Rack were sent to Diamond Back Classics for a custom redline treatment, completing the stance with a perfect balance of performance and vintage style.
