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1959 Plymouth Belvedere

The '59 Plymouth Belvedere: a classic! Think sleek fins, a big, bold look that screamed 50s cool. It wasn't just pretty; it was affordable, making it super popular. A true icon of American automotive history, seen everywhere from drive-ins to family road trips. Definitely a head-turner!

History of the 1959 Plymouth Belvedere

You know that warm, sun-drenched feeling of summer in the late '50s? The 1959 Plymouth Belvedere is just that—encapsulated in steel and chrome. Developed under Walter P. Chrysler's wings, this car took a significant leap in automotive innovation during its time. Introduced with a unit-body construction, the Belvedere shifted gears in car design, literally revolutionizing how automobiles were sculpted and built. It wasn't just a car; it was a reflection of the bold, space-age aesthetics that defined that era.

Photo of a 1959 Plymouth Belvedere

1959 Plymouth Belvedere Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Plymouth Belvedere Worth?

Original MSRP :$2,212.00

Outstanding

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$40,300

Clean

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$28,300

Average

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$18,200*

Rough

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$8,400

1959 Plymouth Belvedere Specs

Body Maker: Plymouth
No. Of Doors: 4
Length: 208.2 inches
Width: 78 inches
Height: 58.5 inches
Wheelbase: 118 inches
Type: Inline, L-head, Single downdraft, Helical
Displacement: 230.2 cu. in.
Cylinders: 6
Bore And Stroke: 3 1/4 & 4 5/8 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.0 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: Not applicable
Horsepower Brake: 132@3600
Horsepower Rated: 25.35
Torque: 205@1200
Main Bearings: 4
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Engine Number Location: On left front side of block.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Carter
Type:
2.75 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
9.3 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.5 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.68
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.2
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.73 to 1
Front: Independent torsion bar
Rear: Longitudinal leaf spring
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: On the drive shaft
Tire Size: 7.5 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 20 Gallons
Oil: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3.25 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting M15a100001
Total Digits:10
Digits 1:Make
Digits 2:Series & Body style
Digits 3:Model year
Digits 4:Assembly plant
Digits 5-10:Production number
Iceberg White, Daffodil Yellow, Starlight Blue Metallic, Powder Blue, Gold Metallic, Flame Red, Bittersweet, Palomino Beige, Mint Green, Bronze Metallic, Pearl Gray, Silver Gray Metallic, Emerald Green Metallic, Apple Green, Caribbean Blue Metallic, Turquoise
Sedan: Opt
Power Flite Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Pushbutton Radio: Opt

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Design and Performance

The Belvedere flaunted daring design choices—think bold lines and those iconic tailfins that looked ready to lift off. Beneath the striking exterior, the engine choices offered something for everyone. From a solid inline-six to the fierce "Golden Commando" V8, this vehicle was designed to thrill. Let me tell you, the ride was smooth like butter, which must have made quite the impression back in the day.

Notable Features

Back in '59, luxury meant power windows, AM/FM radios, and air conditioning. The Plymouth Belvedere didn't disappoint. Whether you were after comfort or raw power, it had both, wrapped in an elegant package that could cruise with the best of them.

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Cultural Impact

But here's the thing: the Plymouth Belvedere wasn't just a car. It rolled onto Hollywood sets, too, becoming an emblem of American glam and grit. Its presence in films and TV shows secured its place as a pop culture cornerstone, making it a muse for storytelling and nostalgia.

Famous Figures Who Own 1959 Plymouth Belvedere

And here's the juicy part: this car wasn't just for any Joe or Jane. Famous folks parked this beauty in their garages, adding to its allure and appeal.

Angela Rippon

Yes, the celebrated British TV presenter Angela Rippon—a name that rings bells in households and car clubs alike—owned one. Her love for cars, seen in shows like "Top Gear," adds another layer to the sparkling legacy of the Belvedere.

More Celebrity Associations

The Belvedere's celebrity connections don't stop there. Appearing as a menacing machine in Stephen King's "Christine," this car took on a life (and maybe even a ghostly spirit) of its own in popular culture. Imagine a car that's almost as famous as the stars who drove it!

Price Records

Let's talk money. The value of a well-kept Belvedere has bounced around like a vintage jukebox tune—sometimes surging beyond $100,000 at auctions. Like antique jewelry, it's all about the rarity and the condition.

Speed Records and Performance Capabilities

Performance buffs, here's a nugget for you: while exact speed records are a bit elusive, owners return tales of driving delight, highlighting the car's robust torque. It was kind of like the unsung hero at a 1950s rally, as reliable and tenacious as a trusty steed.

Pop Culture and Legacy

The Belvedere's legacy isn't confined to garages. Its story weaves through film and music, becoming a representative icon in tales of Americana. Stephen King's "Christine" added a noir mystique, bringing a haunted vibe to this classic. Who knew a car could carry such a chilling charm?

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In the end, the 1959 Plymouth Belvedere is more than a car—it's a slice of history, a conversation starter, and a testament to a time when Detroit's roar echoed across the world. The question is, are you ready to bring a piece of nostalgia back to life?

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Explore Plymouth Belvedere from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

The '59 Belvedere? A real head-turner, that one! You'll spot it a mile away thanks to its iconic, swoopy tailfins – a design element that was huge back then, think of them as the 1950s' equivalent of today's spoilers. Beyond that, it boasts a low, wide stance; those fins really helped accentuate that. Look closely and you'll notice the distinctive front grille and headlights; they're quite unique to the model. Oh, and the chrome, don't even get me started on the chrome! It's everywhere, a gleaming testament to automotive artistry from that era. It's a look that's pretty unforgettable, honestly. If you ever see one, you’ll probably never forget it.

The '59 Belvedere came with a range of engines, giving buyers a nice selection. You had your standard six-cylinder – pretty reliable, if a little less exciting – but then you could step up to a V8 if you wanted something with a bit more… oomph! These V8s came in different sizes too, offering various horsepower levels. So, depending on your need for speed (and your budget!), there was a motor for you. Some folks preferred the grunt of the bigger engine; others were fine with the smoother, more fuel-efficient six. It all came down to personal preference, really.

Compared to other cars from '59? Well, it held its own, let's put it that way. It wasn't the absolute speed demon of its time, but it wasn't a slouch either. It's kind of like comparing apples and oranges, though, as different cars served different purposes; some were built for family hauling, others for a bit more excitement. The Belvedere’s performance depended heavily on the engine you chose, naturally. The V8s gave you a real kick, but the fuel economy wasn’t exactly great; that was a common issue back then. Overall, though, it offered a pleasant driving experience for the time.

Like any classic car, owning a '59 Belvedere does have its challenges. You've gotta be prepared for some quirks – it's part of the charm, honestly! Common issues tend to revolve around things that age, such as the electrical system, which can be temperamental. Brake systems can also be a point of concern; it's a good idea to keep a close eye on those. Plus, parts can be harder to find than for some more modern vehicles; it is a classic car, after all. However, with a little regular maintenance and a good mechanic on hand, many of these issues can be avoided. It's about planning ahead and appreciating the unique nature of classic car ownership. You'll probably meet some amazing people restoring this vehicle!

The value of a '59 Belvedere can really vary widely. It depends on a whole host of factors, such as condition, mileage, options, and how original the car is. A pristine, fully restored example? That will command a hefty price. But a fixer-upper? That’ll be quite a bit less, and is a fun project for someone who likes a good project. It really pays to do your research and check current listings to get an idea of what similar cars are selling for – that'll give you a more concrete feel for things. Online resources can help, of course; websites that specialize in classic car values are pretty handy.