This may look like a 1957 Chevrolet Corvette from the outside, but its guts and interior are anything but. Set to go up for auction at the Barrett-Jackson event in Scottsdale, Arizona is this LS7-powered custom-built '57 Corvette convertible. It's really more like a Corvette hot rod. And it took seven years to build.

The 7.0-liter V8 crate engine, according to Chevy, makes 505 horsepower. It also powered the C6 Corvette Z06. For comparison, the new 2020 Corvette Stingray has 490 hp. The builders tweaked the engine a bit but still used Chevy's dry-sump oiling system that incorporates customized tanks for oil and gas from Rick's Custom Tanks.

A Tremec six-speed manual with a Hurst shifter sends power to the rear wheels. Aside from the modern V8, however, there's another previous generation Corvette lurking under this car's skin with fully independent front and rear suspension from a C4 Corvette.

Despite its more modern Corvette underpinnings and engine, the classic body also received extensive work so that everything fits properly. The rear quarter-fenders were increased by 3.5 inches on each side, which allows for the maximum tire size while still being able to maintain the custom Ron Magnus soft top. There's also a carbon fiber rear-leaf assembly and a three-inch polished stainless-steel exhaust system featuring twin tailpipes. Massive Baer 15-inch rotors with 6-piston calipers are on all four wheels.

The side coves actually come from a 1961 Corvette but were painstakingly crafted into the '57 body. Excessive chrome trim was taken out because it interfered with the resto mod's overall feel. Upon closer examination, you may even notice the C5 Corvette door handles.

Step inside and you'll find a combination of classic Corvette styling and several creature comforts. Aside from air conditioning, power windows and door locks, and heated seats, there's a hidden Kicker stereo system that interfaces with both Apply CarPlay and Android Auto. Even the stock '57 gauges have been upgraded to interface with the LS7. The build was completed in 2018 and it's only been driven 945 miles, a majority of which involved testing.

This stunning Corvette resto-mod hot rod will cross the auction block with no reserve this weekend in Arizona.