Imagine a classic Chevrolet dressed up to look like a luxurious Cadillac from the same era. That unusual concept briefly existed in the mid-1950s as the El Morocco, the dream of a Canadian businessman. Now, an exceptionally rare and beautifully restored example of this automotive oddity heads to the Mecum Auctions block in Indianapolis.
Set to cross as Lot S179 on Saturday, May 17 during Mecum’s Indy 2025 sale, this 1957 Chevrolet El Morocco Convertible stands as one of only ten examples known to exist from its model year. The car’s exclusivity contributes to a pre-auction estimate between $175,000–$225,000.
The El Morocco story belongs to Canadian textile magnate Reuben Allender. For just the 1956 and 1957 model years, Allender pursued his vision of offering Cadillac-inspired style on the more accessible Chevrolet Bel Air platform. His company created unique fiberglass body panels, most notably rear fenders with Cadillac-like fins, which replaced stock Chevy sheetmetal.
They also removed the standard Chevrolet trim and added specific El Morocco badging and details to complete the transformation. However, this extensive custom work resulted in a high price tag, ultimately limiting production to likely fewer than 20 cars total over two years.
This Harbor Blue convertible comes from the respected Marv Siesel Collection. It received a meticulous concours-level restoration by Tel Powney of D’Elegance Restorations in California, showing just 78 carefully driven miles since that overhaul was completed. Underneath the custom bodywork resides standard Chevrolet mechanicals.
A dependable 283 cubic-inch V8 engine fed by a four-barrel carburetor is linked to a smooth Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission. Dual exhaust provides awesome V8 noise, and factory options that aid driving comfort include both power steering and power brakes.
The restoration attended to details like correct T3 headlights and sourcing a New Old Stock (NOS) power convertible top in a rare light blue color. Inside, two-tone blue upholstery nicely complements the car’s exterior sheen. The dashboard retains its factory heater controls and a push-button radio, preserving original 1957 Chevrolet ambiance.
Finding any El Morocco today proves extremely difficult due to its tiny original production numbers. The upcoming Mecum auction presents a distinct opportunity for collectors to acquire an outstanding example of this rare piece of automotive history, offered in exceptional, freshly restored condition – a truly uncommon chance.
