The 1959 Corvette was a masterpiece of design and performance. With its clean styling, luxurious interior, and powerful engine options, it was a sports car lover’s dream. In this article, we will explore the specifications and special equipment options of the 1959 Corvette.
Born and Bred for Sports Car Performance
The 1959 Corvette was built with performance in mind. Its light, strong, and safe fiberglass and plastic body made it not only durable but also significantly lighter than comparable steel-bodied cars. This low weight-to-horsepower ratio contributed to its outstanding performance on the road.
The Corvette came equipped with air-cooled brakes, ensuring safe and positive stopping power. The slotted wheel discs allowed air to cool the brakes, maintaining high efficiency and extending their lifespan. Additionally, the new rear suspension with radius rod rear axle control improved performance, stability, and handling precision.
Luxury and Fun on the Go
Inside the Corvette, you were greeted with a jewel-box cockpit that set new standards for luxurious sports car appointments. The beautiful interiors were designed to complement the exterior finishes. The vinyl bucket seats were padded with foam rubber, providing maximum comfort. The instrument panel featured glare-reducing, concave instruments for easy readability and reduced glare.
The 1959 Corvette offered a variety of transmission options. You could choose between a 3-speed close-ratio synchromesh transmission or a 4-speed close-ratio synchromesh transmission for complete control over your gearbox. For those who preferred the convenience of an automatic, the Corvette offered a Powerglide automatic transmission.
Corvette Specifications and Special Equipment Options
Performance
- 230-h.p. Corvette V8 with 4-barrel carburetion, 9.5:1 compression ratio, hydraulic valve lifters (standard equipment).
- 245-h.p. Corvette V8 with twin 4-barrel carburetion, 9.5:1 compression ratio, hydraulic valve lifters.
- 250-h.p. Corvette V8 with Ramjet Fuel Injection, 9.5:1 compression ratio, hydraulic valve lifters.
- 270-h.p. Corvette V8 with twin 4-barrel carburetion, 9.5:1 compression ratio, special camshaft and high-speed valve system.
- 290-h.p. Corvette V8 with Ramjet Fuel Injection, 10.5:1 compression ratio, special camshaft and high-speed valve system.
All engines featured independent operating mechanisms for each valve, a precision-machined forged steel crankshaft, and a full-pressure lubrication system. The Corvette V8 was capable of delivering impressive power and a sweet sound of action.
Choice of Transmissions
- 3-Speed Close-Ratio Synchro-Mesh (standard equipment).
- 4-Speed Close-Ratio Synchro-Mesh.
- Powerglide Automatic (available with select engine options).
The Corvette offered various rear axle ratios, including standard and Positraction options. The chassis featured an independent coil spring front suspension and radius rods and outrigger-mounted semi-elliptic leaf springs at the rear. The hydraulic 11-inch self-energizing brakes provided excellent stopping power.
Body Exterior
The Corvette’s body was made of fiberglass reinforced plastic and featured sculptured side panels. The Magic-Mirror acrylic lacquer finish came in seven solid colors, with optional two-tone exteriors available. The Corvette also offered a choice between a soft top and a removable hardtop, both of which were designed for all-weather comfort.
Interior Features
The interior of the 1959 Corvette was designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The vinyl-trimmed bucket seats were padded with foam rubber and individually adjustable. The instrument panel featured a speedometer, tachometer, ammeter, fuel level, oil pressure, and coolant temperature gauges, among other controls. The Corvette also offered optional features such as a transistorized radio, heater, and electric clock.
FAQs
Q: What engine options were available for the 1959 Corvette?
A: The 1959 Corvette offered a range of V8 engine options, including 230-h.p., 245-h.p., 250-h.p., 270-h.p., and 290-h.p.
Q: What transmission options were available for the 1959 Corvette?
A: The Corvette gave you the choice between a 3-speed close-ratio synchromesh transmission, a 4-speed close-ratio synchromesh transmission, or a Powerglide automatic transmission.
Q: What were the exterior color options for the 1959 Corvette?
A: The Corvette came in seven solid colors, including Tuxedo Black, Classic Cream, Frost Blue, Crown Sapphire, Roman Red, Snowcrest White, and Inca Silver.
Conclusion
The 1959 Corvette was a true masterpiece, combining stunning design with exceptional performance. With its powerful engine options, luxurious interior, and attention to detail, it set the standard for sports cars of its time. Whether you were driving for pleasure or competing in a rally, the 1959 Corvette delivered an unparalleled driving experience.
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