The Timeless 1959 Chevy Impala: Your Guide To A True American Classic

Adriel Rolfson 24 Jul 2025

Do you ever think about cars that truly stand apart, the kind that make you stop and look? Well, the 1959 Chevy Impala is absolutely one of those special vehicles. It's a true symbol of its time, a car that really captured the spirit of the late 1950s. This particular model, with its unique appearance and bold style, still turns heads wherever it goes, even today, in some respects.

For many car lovers, the 1959 Impala isn't just an old car; it's a piece of history on wheels. It represents a period of big changes in car design, moving away from earlier looks to something much more dramatic. People often remember this car for its incredible rear fins, which were quite unlike anything else, so they really made a statement. It’s a car that, you know, has a story to tell just by looking at it.

If you're curious about this amazing machine, whether you're dreaming of owning one, or just want to learn more about its place in car history, you've come to the right spot. We're going to explore what makes the 1959 Impala so special, where you might find one for yourself, and what you should think about when looking at prices, as a matter of fact. It’s all here to help you get closer to this classic.

The Story of the '59 Impala
- A Look at Its Unique Design
- Engine Choices and Power
Why the '59 Impala Stands Out
Finding Your Own 1959 Impala
- The Market for a '59 Impala Today
- Where to Search for Your Car
What to Look For When Buying
Understanding 1959 Impala Values
- Current Market Prices
- Factors Affecting Value
Frequently Asked Questions About the 1959 Impala
Your Next Steps to Owning a Legend

The Story of the '59 Impala

The year 1959 brought with it a whole new look for the Chevrolet Impala, a car that had only just appeared a year earlier as a top-tier Bel Air trim. For its second year, Chevrolet decided to give the Impala its very own body, making it a distinct model. This was a bold step, actually, and it really showed how much Chevrolet wanted to make a statement in the car world. This change truly set the 1959 Impala apart from its earlier version, giving it a personality all its own.

This car was made at a time when America was really embracing new ideas and a sense of progress. Cars were not just for getting around; they were symbols of style and how well you were doing. The 1959 Impala, with its striking appearance, perfectly fit into this way of thinking. It was a car that seemed to promise a bright future, you know, a very exciting time to be alive.

A Look at Its Unique Design

What makes the 1959 Impala so memorable is its truly different design. Unlike the tall tail fins on other cars of the period, the Impala had these wide, wing-like rear fenders that swept out horizontally. They were topped with teardrop taillights, a rather unique touch. This gave the car a low, wide look, making it seem like it was ready to take flight, so it really stood out.

The front of the car was just as interesting, with a wide grille and dual headlights. The roofline, especially on the hardtop models, was sleek and airy, almost floating. You could get it in different body styles, including a two-door hardtop, a four-door hardtop, a sedan, and a convertible. Each one had that unmistakable 1959 Impala presence, pretty much. The "My text" mentions a striking red exterior that perfectly captures the era's bold style, which is very true for this car.

Engine Choices and Power

Underneath that eye-catching exterior, the 1959 Impala offered a range of engines to give it plenty of get-up-and-go. Buyers had choices, from a dependable six-cylinder engine for everyday driving to several V8 options that provided more power. The biggest and most sought-after V8 was the 348 cubic inch "W" engine, which came in different power levels. This motor, you know, could really move the car along.

Having these different engine options meant that the Impala could appeal to a wide range of people. Someone looking for a reliable family car could find it, and someone wanting a bit more excitement on the road could get that too. It was a versatile car, actually, that offered a good mix of style and practical performance for its day.

Why the '59 Impala Stands Out

The 1959 Impala holds a special place in the hearts of many people, not just car collectors. It represents a particular moment in American culture, a time of optimism and bold ideas. Its daring design was a clear break from what came before, and it set a new direction for car styling. This car, in a way, really captured the feeling of the late 1950s, a period of big dreams.

Its distinctive look has made it a favorite in movies, TV shows, and songs, cementing its place as a cultural icon. When you see a 1959 Impala, it’s like taking a step back in time, just a little. It’s a vehicle that sparks conversations and brings smiles, a truly beloved piece of automotive art. The car's strong presence on the road still commands attention, which is pretty amazing.

Finding Your Own 1959 Impala

If the idea of owning a piece of this amazing history excites you, you'll be glad to know that 1959 Impalas do come up for sale. Finding your dream car can be a fun adventure, and there are quite a few places to look. It's almost like a treasure hunt, actually, to find the right one for you. You just need to know where to start your search.

The Market for a '59 Impala Today

The market for classic cars, especially something as popular as the 1959 Impala, is quite active. As of today, July 24, 2024, you can find a good number of these cars listed for sale across various online platforms. For instance, my information shows that there are 16 new and used 1959 Chevrolet Impalas listed on classiccars.com, with prices starting from $34,900. That gives you a starting point, so it's good to know.

Other places also have a good selection. You might find around 170 used 1959 Chevrolet Impala cars on buysellsearch.com, with a price range that goes from as low as $2,950 to $48,771. That’s a pretty wide range, suggesting different conditions and models are available. Carsforsale.com® also lists the 1959 Chevrolet Impala, with prices starting from $82,995, which shows that some examples are quite valuable, you know, in excellent shape.

It's interesting to note that on classiccars.com, you can also find 60 new and used 1959 to 1960 Chevrolet Impalas listed, starting from $10,995. And if you broaden your search to just "1959 Chevrolets," there are 93 listings starting from $3,000. This suggests there are many options out there, from projects to highly restored examples, basically. Autabuy.com, a trusted online place for classic vehicles, has 25 listings for 1959 Impala cars for sale right now, which is a decent number.

You can also find these cars on classics on autotrader, where both dealers and private sellers list them. eBay.com is another spot where you can often get good deals on 1959 Chevrolet cars and trucks, sometimes with free shipping, which is a nice perk. My information also mentions that you could save $6,078 this July on a 1959 Chevrolet Impala on cargurus, so that's a pretty good deal if you find one.

Where to Search for Your Car

When you're ready to start looking, several online spots are great for finding a 1959 Impala. Places like classiccars.com, classics on autotrader, and hemmings are well-known for classic car sales. Hemmings, for example, is known for having a wide selection of classic cars at what they call "affordable prices." These sites typically show prices, photos, and details about the cars, which is very helpful.

Other places to check include buysellsearch.com, classic.com, and carsforsale.com®. These sites allow you to compare prices, features, and even the locations of different models and their conditions. Autabuy.com is another solid choice for classic vehicles. For a broader search, you might even look at ebay.com, where you can find a large selection of 1959 Chevrolet cars and trucks. Frankly, there are many avenues to explore.

What to Look For When Buying

When you're considering a 1959 Impala, it's a good idea to know what to pay attention to. Since these cars are quite old, their condition can vary a lot. You'll want to inspect the body for any signs of rust, especially in common areas like the floorboards, trunk, and lower parts of the fenders. The unique rear fins are also important to check for damage or repairs, as they can be tricky to fix correctly, so be careful.

Take a good look at the interior. Is it original, or has it been redone? My information mentions a 1959 Chevy Impala with an "OEM interior," meaning original equipment manufacturer, which is a big plus for collectors. Check the engine and transmission. Does the car run smoothly? Ask about its maintenance history. A good mechanic who knows classic cars can be a huge help here, you know, to really give it a once-over.

Also, verify the car's paperwork. Make sure the title is clear and matches the car's identification numbers. It’s always smart to ask questions about the car's past, like how long the current owner has had it and why they are selling. Being thorough now can save you headaches later, which is something to keep in mind, pretty much.

Understanding 1959 Impala Values

The value of a 1959 Impala can swing quite a bit depending on many different things. It's not just about the year; it's about the specific car. Getting a good idea of what a car is worth before you make an offer is a very smart move. You want to make sure you're getting a fair deal, as a matter of fact, for what you are paying.

Current Market Prices

Based on the information I have, the prices for a 1959 Impala can range widely. We've seen listings starting as low as $2,950 on buysellsearch.com, going up to $48,771 on the same site. On classiccars.com, prices start at $34,900. Carsforsale.com® shows prices starting at $82,995, which suggests that the very best examples command higher prices. This spread really shows the different conditions and types of cars out there, basically.

For example, you might find a project car that needs a lot of work for a lower price, or a fully restored, show-quality car that costs much more. The "My text" also mentions that the Hagerty Classic Car Valuation Tool® can help you figure out the base values for a 1959 Chevrolet Impala and understand the current state of the classic car market. This tool is pretty useful for getting a sense of things, you know, what's typical.

Factors Affecting Value

Several key things influence how much a 1959 Impala is worth. The overall condition of the car is probably the most important. A car that is completely original and in excellent shape, sometimes called "concours" condition, will always be worth more than one that needs a lot of work or has been heavily modified. Originality, meaning how much of the car is still as it was when it left the factory, also plays a big role.

The specific body style matters too. Convertibles and two-door hardtops often fetch higher prices than sedans, for example. The engine type can also affect value; a car with a powerful V8, especially the original one it came with, will likely be more desirable. The color, like the striking red mentioned in "My text," can also make a difference if it's a popular or original factory color. So, there are many moving parts to consider, honestly.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1959 Impala

Here are some common questions people often ask about the 1959 Chevrolet Impala:

How much does a 1959 Chevy Impala typically cost?
The price for a 1959 Chevy Impala can vary quite a lot, depending on its condition, originality, and where it's being sold. Based on current listings, you might find cars for as low as a few thousand dollars for a project, while highly restored or perfect examples can go for well over $80,000. It's really about finding the right balance for your budget and what you are looking for, you know, in a classic car.

Where can I find a 1959 Chevrolet Impala for sale?
There are many places to look for a 1959 Impala. Popular online spots include classiccars.com, classics on autotrader, hemmings, buysellsearch.com, classic.com, carsforsale.com®, autabuy.com, and even ebay.com. These sites list cars from private sellers and car dealers. You can also sometimes find them at classic car auctions or through local car clubs, which is pretty neat.

Is the 1959 Impala a good car to restore?
Many people enjoy restoring 1959 Impalas because they are very popular and parts can be found, though some specific trim pieces might be a bit harder to get. Their unique design makes them a rewarding project for those who love classic cars. If you're thinking about restoring one, it's a good idea to consider the car's starting condition and your budget for the work needed. It can be a very fulfilling process, actually, to bring one back to life.

Your Next Steps to Owning a Legend

The 1959 Chevy Impala is truly a special car, a real piece of American history that continues to capture people's hearts. Its unique looks and place in car culture make it a highly sought-after classic. Whether you're just starting your search or you're ready to make an offer, knowing what to look for and

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