1959 Chevrolet Corvette

Description

Nobody can say that General Motors wasn't hitting on all eight cylinders in the 1950s. One brilliant design after another flowed out of their design studios, and few are more timeless and widely recognized than the 1959 Corvette. With quad headlights, the contrasting side cove, and exquisite detailing throughout, these were more than just America's sports car, they were artwork.

Snowcrest White was by far the most popular color in 1959, with 3354 examples built in a run of less than 10,000 cars. But that doesn't mean it's common, because the look is timeless and the silver side coves are a dramatic contrast that practically defines the C1 'Vette. Given the condition of the finish, it's obvious that someone has taken exceptional care of this 'Vette following the restoration, as it still looks quite fresh and ready to show or go. Fit and finish are good throughout, with tight door gaps and smooth panels that don't display the typical Corvette flaws and imperfections. And while some may feel that the details on the 1959 models are excessive, including lots of chrome, it's also what makes these cars unique and therefore desirable. Of course, there are others who feel that there's no way to make an early Corvette look bad, and all the trim is just part of the wonderful decade of the 1950s.

Bright red upholstery is a natural choice with the Snowcrest White, dating back to the very first Corvette, and it was one of only four choices that year. Few will argue against white-on-red Corvette, and the look is as timeless as the Corvette itself. There's not a lot of bolstering to the buckets, but fortunately seat belts were included in 1959, which surely helped keep drivers in place during spirited driving. Recent carpets and matching door panels give the interior a highly polished look, while the instruments, which were freshly redesigned in 1958, have been completely rebuilt. The original AM radio features the signal-seeking "Wonderbar" function, although it's not currently functional due to a blown speaker. It's also worth noting that this was originally a 4-speed car that was converted to an automatic to make it easier to drive, and the trick shifter is quite convincing as a manual stick. The car includes a matching white hardtop that's a very desirable option today.

The only engine available in 1959 was a 283 cubic inch V8, and none of the various options were soft in the performance department. This one is a base unit with a single 4-barrel carburetor, but that's plenty of power to make it entertaining without being stressful. Dressed to appear original, it includes the louvered chrome air cleaner, cast aluminum valve covers with 'Corvette' script, and ram's horn exhaust manifolds. Anything that isn't aluminum has been painted Chevy Orange, and even the original generator remains in place making the electricity. It's not detailed for show, but the right parst are all there and driving is what makes this car such a joy to own, not seeing who has the proper plating on their hose clamps. As I mentioned, the original 4-speed has been replaced by a TH350 3-speed automatic transmission, but the parts are available to switch it back to a 4-speed if that's your desire. The engine runs beautifully, with a smart cackle from the twin tailpipes, and pulling through the gears like a freight train. Fresh whitewall tires on bright red wheels with full wheel covers add just the right amount of color.

Early Corvettes have been highly sought since they were little more than used cars, and it's easy to see why. Call today!