The 1959 Chevrolet Corvette stands as a testament to the rapid evolution of American sports cars in the late 1950s. Building on the success of the 1957 model, which introduced the iconic 283-cubic-inch, 283-horsepower fuel-injected engine, the 1959 Corvette continued to push the boundaries of automotive performance. While the Corvette’s Rochester fuel injection system was renowned for its complexity and occasional reliability issues, many enthusiasts opted for the simpler dual four-barrel carburetor setup, offering comparable power with enhanced dependability.
By 1959, the Corvette had transformed significantly from its 1953 predecessor, the Blue Flame six-cylinder model. The latest fuel-injected versions could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds, reaching top speeds of 128 mph. The dual-quad-carbureted models were close behind in performance, making the Corvette a symbol of American automotive prowess.
This particular 1959 Corvette is finished in a striking all-black over red livery and features a factory black hardtop. It is equipped with the correct “spinner” hubcaps and vintage Lester Tire Company wide white wall tires. Under the hood, the Corvette boasts a 283-cubic-inch V-8 engine with a “CT” engine stamp suffix, indicating a 245-horsepower engine fitted with dual Carter four-barrel carburetors and a four-speed manual gearbox.
Remarkably, this Corvette appears to have enjoyed a more pampered existence compared to many of its peers, likely contributing to its largely original condition. The car’s odometer reads fewer than 11,300 miles, though its accuracy as an actual reading is unconfirmed. The vehicle’s interior, exterior, and underhood components retain their original characteristics, with no significant evidence of refurbishment or full restoration.
As a pioneering automobile and a symbol of American automotive culture, the first-generation Chevrolet Corvette transcends the collector car world, captivating enthusiasts and admirers alike. Whether as a standout at “cars and coffee” events or as a centerpiece of a serious American muscle car collection, this C1 Corvette remains both highly usable and historically significant.
Given its highly original state, this Corvette offers potential as a base for a comprehensive restoration or as a candidate for continued, meticulous preservation. Regardless of its next chapter, this 1959 Corvette will serve as a lasting testament to the era when “America’s sports car” solidified its place as a performance icon.
A Private Collection / Price: $90,000 – $120,000 USD | Offered Without Reserve
Source: rmsothebys.com
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