Does the 1957 VW Beetle have the chrome molding down the sides and hood?
yes it did. Best way to see is go to google, click on images, and search for a 1957 beetle. All the pictures show chrome on the sides and rear.
The previous response was partially correct. The stock model of the 1957 Beetle had chrome molding on both sides of the body and a single one down the middle of the hood (front).
