Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com
The 1959 Chevrolet Biscayne holds a special place in the annals of American automotive history, representing a time of bold designs and evolving power. This particular 1959 Chevrolet Biscayne two-door sedan offers a fascinating twist on the classic formula. Originally sold by Plaxico Chevrolet in Clinton, South Carolina, this Biscayne began its life with a modest inline-six engine. However, its journey took an exciting turn under prior ownership, transforming it into a compelling restomod with significant mechanical upgrades.
One of the most notable modifications is the installation of a robust 348ci V8 engine. This larger displacement power plant injects a significant dose of performance into the classic Biscayne, offering a driving experience far more spirited than its original configuration. Complementing this engine upgrade is the addition of a TH400 three-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and reliable power delivery to the rear wheels. This pairing of a classic V8 with a capable automatic transmission makes this Biscayne a comfortable yet potent cruiser.
Power and Performance: The heart of this Biscayne is now a replacement 348ci V8 engine, enhanced with an Edelbrock carburetor featuring an electric choke and a distinctive Cadillac-style air cleaner housing. This setup ensures improved fuel delivery and engine performance. The power from this V8 is channeled through a robust TH400 three-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and reliable operation. Further enhancing the driving dynamics is an adjustable Viair air suspension system, allowing for customizable ride and comfort. The upgrade to power-assisted front disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors provides significantly improved stopping power compared to the original drum brake setup, adding a crucial element of modern safety and performance.
Beyond the powertrain and suspension enhancements, this Biscayne features thoughtful interior upgrades for modern comfort and convenience. An under-dash air conditioning unit has been installed, making it a more enjoyable classic to drive in warmer climates. An aftermarket cassette stereo, linked to a trunk-mounted CD changer, provides a range of audio entertainment options. The interior is trimmed in a stylish gray cloth and vinyl upholstery, offering a comfortable and classic aesthetic. For added safety, gray lap belts have been fitted for both front and rear occupants.
The exterior of the Biscayne retains its iconic 1959 styling cues, including a bright grille, a Vista-Panoramic curved windshield, quad headlights, prominent chrome bumpers, and the era-defining tail fins. While the car left the factory in a striking Roman Red and Snowcrest White two-tone finish, the seller believes that portions of the body have been refinished over time. Imperfections such as touched-up paint chips, blemishes, and areas of worn or thinning paint are noted and pictured, reflecting the car’s age and use. Similarly, the chrome trim shows some blemishes consistent with a vehicle of this vintage.
The car rides on chrome-finished 16″ steel wheels, adding a touch of classic flair. These wheels are fitted with conical center caps and staggered-width Diamond Back wide-whitewall radial tires, contributing to both the car’s aesthetic appeal and ride quality. The -adjustable airbag suspension system, utilizing Viair components, allows the owner to adjust the car’s stance to their preference, whether for cruising comfort or a more lowered, custom look. Recent maintenance includes the replacement of the right-front control arm bushings in 2024, ensuring continued smooth handling.
Inside, the front and rear bench seats are upholstered in a tasteful gray cloth and vinyl combination, providing comfortable seating for passengers. The gray patterned floor mat adds to the interior’s classic feel, although the seller notes some cracks and damage in this area. The aftermarket reduced-diameter steering wheel offers a more modern feel for the driver while still complementing the vintage dashboard. The instrument cluster features a 120-mph speedometer, flanked by gauges for temperature, oil pressure, and fuel level, along with a clock. Aftermarket auxiliary gauges have been neatly mounted below the dash, providing additional information to the driver. The five-digit odometer currently shows 91,000 miles, with approximately 4,000 of those added under the current ownership since 2022.
Adding to the car’s history and provenance is the inclusion of the original dealer invoice from Plaxico Chevrolet. This document provides valuable information about the car’s original specifications, options, and sale date of August 11, 1959, as well as the original total paid price of $2,781. This historical paperwork adds a layer of authenticity and collectibility to this unique Biscayne. The car is currently offered with a clean Minnesota title in the seller’s name, along with service records documenting some of the work performed. This 1959 Chevrolet Biscayne represents a compelling blend of classic 1950s styling with significant modern mechanical upgrades, creating a unique and enjoyable driving experience.
Summary
- Originally an inline-six powered 1959 Chevrolet Biscayne two-door sedan.
- Now equipped with a replacement 348ci V8 engine.
- Features a TH400 three-speed automatic transmission.
- Adjustable Viair air suspension system installed.
- Upgraded with power-assisted front disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors.
- Interior features gray cloth and vinyl upholstery, under-dash AC, and cassette stereo with CD changer.
- Rides on 16″ chrome wheels with whitewall radial tires.
- Includes original dealer invoice and service records.
- Offered with a clean Minnesota title.
**Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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