1959 Chevrolet Corvette

Chassis No. J59S100875
Inspired by the Oldsmobile Golden Rocket design study, the “solid axle” generation of Chevrolet's Corvette was redesigned for 1956 with quad headlamps and dramatic side coves. The 1959 Corvette was an evolution of this initial restyle, shorn of its immediate predecessor's faux hood louvers and chromed vertical bars on the rear deck. The 1959 Corvette was further upgraded by the addition of trailing radius rods intended to suppress axle hop under acceleration.
This 1959 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster is finished in Roman Red with contrasting Snowcrest White coves and a black interior. Power is derived from the 283 cu-in Chevrolet small-block V8 fed by a single four-barrel carburetor, producing 230 horsepower. It is optioned with revised-for-1959 Corvette spinner wheel covers, whitewall tires, and the well-known General Motors Wonder Bar AM radio.
A handwritten history on file from the third owner indicates this Corvette was a Southern California car from new, having had four owners during its lifetime. The first owner is reported to have kept the car from 1958 through 1987. A restoration was performed in the late 1980s before passing to its third owner in 1990. Acquired by the Fleischman Collection in 2002, service records on file document a history of continuous maintenance. In 2010, as documented in three invoices, a full brake system overhaul was completed by American Motoring Memories, including a new master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines and an engine electrical check that included a generator rebuild, new distributor parts, all at considerable expense. The second and third invoices show work to the carburetor, generator, and cooling system. A new convertible top was purchased and installed in 2013. Since that time work has included new fuel lines, a new water pump, and a complete carburetor rebuild.
With the advent of NCRS judging and Bloomington Gold Certification many owners have turned their passion for Corvettes into a desire to be judged and certified. The appeal of an early Corvette that can be enjoyed as a time machine to an earlier era, is one to be experienced on the open road. As an older restoration, this 1959 Roadster shows appropriately aged paint and brightwork. During inspection, the car started eagerly and ran smoothly, no doubt owing to the years of consistent maintenance. There are few better values in 1950s sports cars than a first generation Corvette with a V8 and a 4-speed; the performance, looks and fun factor offered here will surely be enjoyed by its next owner.