When it comes to classic American cars, few models are as instantly recognizable or beloved as theย 1959 Chevy Impala. With its sleek lines, impressive fins, and powerful engine options, the ’59 Impala made a splash when it first hit the market and continues to capture the hearts of classic car enthusiasts to this day. As one of the most iconic vehicles ever produced by Chevrolet, the 1959 Impala represents a high point in automotive design from the chrome-laden, finned-out late 1950s.
The Impala name first appeared in 1958 as a top-of-the-line trim package for the Chevy Bel Air. But in 1959, theย Impala became its own separate model, slotting in above the Bel Air in Chevy’s lineup. Available in a variety of body styles including a convertible, sport coupe, 4-door sedan and 4-door hardtop, the Impala offered something for everyone. Nearly 473,000 Impalas were sold in its first year as a standalone model, making it an instant hit.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes theย 1959 Chevy Impalaย such an enduring classic, from its trend-setting style to its impressive performance capabilities. We’ll explore why this nearly 65-year-old vehicle still turns heads and commands respect wherever it goes.
Iconic Styling of the ’59 Impala
Sleek Lines and Soaring Fins
One of the most distinguishing features of theย 1959 Chevy Impalaย is its unmistakable exterior styling. The long, low body is accented by a full-width grille, round taillights, and of course, those iconic rear fins. Soaring nearly 18 inches above the deck lid at their highest point, the Impala’s fins were some of the largest ever put on an American production car.
While fins first started appearing on cars in the late 1940s and early 1950s, they reached their peak in 1959, and theย Impala’s finsย were the pinnacle of the design trend Inspired by the dawn of the jet age and America’s obsession with space flight, the fins gave the car an almost rocket-like appearance.
Other exterior details, like theย Impala’sย chrome trim, bullet-shaped side molding, and cat eye-shaped front wheel openings, added to its futuristic flair Available colors ranged from subdued black and white to bright shades of blue, green, red and yellow, perfect for the colorful late 1950s.
A Well-Appointed Interior
The interior of theย 1959 Impalaย was just as stylish as the exterior, with a sleek, symmetrical dashboard and plenty of bright trim. The Impala came standard with a cloth and vinyl upholstery, color-keyed to match the exterior paint.
Higher-end options included a seven-position tilt steering wheel, cruise control, air conditioning, and a “Speedminder” device that would buzz if the driver exceeded a pre-set speed limit. The Impala’s long list of creature comforts and convenience features helped solidify its position as a premium vehicle
Impressive Performance
Engine Options
Theย 1959 Chevy Impalaย could be ordered with one of seven different V8 engine options, ranging from a 283 cubic inch small-block to a fire-breathing 348 cubic inch big-block The top engine choice was the 315 horsepower fuel-injected 283, a rare option that gave the Impala serious performance credibility.
Most Impalas, however, were equipped with one of the 348 cubic inch big-block V8s, which made between 250 and 320 horsepower. With a four-barrel carburetor and 11.25:1 compression ratio, the top 348 engine option provided the perfect balance of power and drivability.
Transmission Choices
Buyers could pair their chosen Impala engine with one of three transmission options: a three-speed manual, a four-speed manual, or a two-speed Powerglide automatic. The Powerglide was by far the most popular choice, as most Impala buyers weren’t interested in rowing their own gears.
Handling and Ride Quality
Despite its large size and heft, theย 1959 Impalaย was surprisingly agile thanks to its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering. The Impala rode on a 119-inch wheelbase and featured coil springs at all four corners, which provided a smooth, comfortable ride.
For buyers looking for even better handling, the Impala could be optioned with a heavy-duty suspension and larger brakes. These upgrades, along with the available high-performance engines, made the Impala a favorite among drag racers and stock car drivers in the early 1960s.
The Impala’s Legacy
Popularity and Sales Success
Theย 1959 Chevy Impalaย was an instant hit with buyers, selling nearly 473,000 units in its first year. The Impala would go on to become Chevrolet’s best-selling full-size car for decades, with the name appearing on everything from family sedans to high-performance muscle cars.
The success of theย Impalaย helped solidify Chevrolet’s position as America’s most popular car brand in the 1960s and beyond. The Impala name would remain in use on Chevy’s full-size offerings until 1985, and then again from 1994 to 1996 and 2000 to 2020.
An Enduring Classic
Today, theย 1959 Chevy Impalaย is highly sought-after by collectors and classic car enthusiasts. Well-maintained examples can fetch six-figure prices at auction, and the ’59 Impala is a common sight at car shows and cruise-ins across the country.
Many credit theย 1959 Impala’s enduring popularityย to its perfect blend of style, performance, and comfort. It represents the peak of 1950s automotive design, with its outrageous fins and abundant chrome, but it also offers a driving experience that still feels engaging over 60 years later.
Influence on Pop Culture
Theย 1959 Impalaย has also had a significant impact on popular culture over the years. The car has been featured prominently in movies, TV shows, and music videos, often as a symbol of coolness and rebellion.
Perhaps most famously, a redย 1959 Impalaย played a starring role in the 1973 film “American Graffiti,” where it was driven by Ron Howard’s character. The car has also appeared in music videos by artists like Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Lana Del Rey.
Conclusion
Theย 1959 Chevy Impalaย is a true icon of American automotive history, representing the peak of 1950s style and performance. With its sleek lines, towering fins, and powerful engine options, the ’59 Impala set the standard for full-size cars in its day and continues to be beloved by enthusiasts around the world.
Whether you’re a die-hard collector or simply appreciate classic cars, theย 1959 Impalaย is sure to turn your head and capture your imagination. It’s a rolling piece of art that embodies the spirit of a bygone era, and a testament to the enduring appeal of American automotive design.
