Designed by Virgil Exner as part of Chrysler’s “Forward Look” styling program, this 1957 Dodge Custom Royal Lancer Convertible was hailed by the company’s marketing department as the best and most beautiful automobile yet created. The Custom Royal’s presence was undeniable, with a long and low profile that dripped with aviation-inspired touches. From a pair of huge, triangular “Flightsweep” tail fins to the “twin jet taillamps” and high-contrast “Scope Sight” instrumentation, Exner’s design was clearly meant to evoke a sense of motion even when standing still.

Beneath the flashy chrome and Jet Age styling, the 1957 Custom Royal offered best-in-class handling and performance on account of a brand-new suspension and a selection of reliable and powerful 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; it was a revelation in the company’s suspension development.

Better yet, the Custom Royal could really move when buyers selected Dodge’s D-500 performance package, which took the model’s standard 325 cubic-inch V-8 and added a pair of Hemi cylinder heads, new pistons, hydraulic valve lifters, dual exhaust system, and Carter four-barrel carburetor—good for a conservatively rated 285 horsepower, nearly 10 percent more than the base engine. Some MOPAR experts estimate that fewer than 125 examples of the 2,456 Custom Royal Lancer Convertibles produced for 1957 received the coveted D-500 performance package.

This largely unrestored 1957 Custom Royal Lancer D-500 Convertible is presented in Halo Blue and Sapphire White over a matching polychrome interior and white convertible top. Under previous ownership it was treated to a great deal of mechanical sorting and sympathetic cosmetic detailing, and has been regularly maintained under the consignor’s care. The car’s impressive dashboard is rich with presentable chrome detailing, while a D-500-specific, twin-spoke steering wheel fronts a push-button radio and Torqueflite control modules.

Notwithstanding the desirable D-500 package, factory options include an under-dash heater, power steering, and power brakes. The car rides on standard steel wheels with chromed full-size covers and shod in period-style wide whitewall tires.

Uncompromising in luxury, comfort, and motoring ease, the 1957 Dodge Custom Royal Convertible is widely regarded as one of Dodge’s finest “chrome king” models, and with its potent D-500 performance package it remains a stout and reliable performer.