The Absolute Best Cars from 1959
Ah, the year 1959! Picture this: chrome gleaming like a metal sunset, tailfins soaring into the sky, and the rumble of engines as smooth as jazz. I remember stumbling upon a ‘59 classic at a car show, and it was like discovering a time capsule that had been polished to perfection. It was an amazing sight.
So hold onto your hats as we take a nostalgic cruise through 16 of the finest cars from a year that defined automotive style.
1. Cadillac Eldorado
With fins sharp enough to slice through time and more chrome than a space shuttle, the Eldorado defined automotive excess—and we loved every inch of it. The car was a symbol of luxury and opulence, boasting a V8 engine that purred like a contented cat.
Whether cruising down Main Street or parked at a drive-in, the Eldorado was impossible to ignore. Its bold presence and lavish features made every ride feel like a red carpet event.
2. Chevrolet Impala
Introduced with batwing fins and “cat’s eye” taillights, the Impala became an instant American icon that screamed both power and style. It was the car that defined a generation, with its elongated body and distinctive design.
Whether you were a rock ‘n’ roll rebel or a suburban dad, the Impala was the ride that made you feel like you owned the road.
3. Ford Thunderbird
The ’59 T-Bird was wider, lower, and more luxurious—ushering in the personal luxury car era with unapologetic flair. Its distinctive design and plush interiors made it the darling of stylish drivers everywhere.
With its powerful V8 engine and sleek lines, it stood out as a symbol of American elegance and innovation.
4. Buick Electra 225
Nicknamed “Deuce and a Quarter,” this full-size cruiser offered space, grace, and a face full of chrome that demanded respect. The Electra 225 was Buick’s flagship, combining comfort with performance in a package that was hard to resist.
Its generous interior provided unmatched comfort, making long drives a pleasure.
5. Chrysler Imperial
Styled like a rolling spaceship, the Imperial had push-button transmission and more presence than most small countries. Its audacious design and luxurious features made it the talk of the town.
People marveled at its unique styling and technological advancements, which were ahead of their time, solidifying its place in automotive history.
6. Lincoln Continental Mark IV
Long, lean, and unmistakably elegant, the Mark IV made every driveway look like a presidential motorcade. Its luxurious interiors and smooth ride made it the choice of discerning drivers.
With its captivating design and impressive engineering, the Mark IV stood out as a pinnacle of automotive elegance and performance.
7. Pontiac Bonneville
A stylish powerhouse with rocket-inspired design and serious performance under the hood—it was futuristic muscle before muscle cars were even a thing. The Bonneville was known for its bold styling and powerful V8 engine, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Its sleek lines and aggressive stance gave it a truly commanding presence on the road.
8. Chevrolet Corvette C1
Still rocking its early curves, the ’59 Corvette was a lightweight fiberglass marvel with sporty charm and go-fast guts. This car was a dream for those who craved speed and style, offering a driving experience like no other.
Its sleek design and powerful engine made it a favorite among sports car enthusiasts.
9. DeSoto Adventurer
A rare beauty with gold accents, dual headlights, and tailfins that looked like they were drawn by comic book artists on speed. The Adventurer was a car that exuded glamour and excitement, capturing the spirit of the 1950s.
Its eye-catching design and luxurious features made it a standout in any crowd. The DeSoto Adventurer was a true work of art on wheels.
10. Dodge Custom Royal
Loaded with bold colors and outrageous flair, the Custom Royal was the kind of car you couldn’t ignore—even if you tried. Its vibrant design and powerful performance made it a favorite among those who dared to stand out.
With its distinctive styling and robust engine, it captured the essence of the era with flair.
11. Mercury Park Lane
Sleek, upscale, and packing a powerful V8, the Park Lane was Mercury’s bold statement in the late ’50s luxury wars. Its refined design and luxurious interiors made it a symbol of class and sophistication.
With its striking appearance and impressive performance, it became a favorite choice for those who valued style and substance.
12. Plymouth Fury
With bold styling and V8 muscle, the Fury lived up to its name—especially when finished in bright red with massive fins. The Fury’s aggressive design and powerful engine made it a standout choice for performance enthusiasts.
It was a car that commanded attention, both in terms of looks and performance.
13. Nash Metropolitan
This subcompact cutie was all charm—British-built but American-branded, and just the right size for urban life (or a second glance). The Metropolitan’s unique design and playful personality made it a favorite among those looking for something different.
It was a car that brought a smile to your face, whether you were behind the wheel or just passing by.
14. BMW 507 Roadster
Rare, exotic, and devilishly pretty, the 507 was BMW’s crown jewel—a sporty roadster with graceful lines and serious soul. The car’s elegant design and powerful engine made it a dream for driving enthusiasts.
With only a limited number produced, the 507 was a rare gem in the automotive world.
15. Jaguar Mark IX
A stately Brit with a wood-and-leather interior, the Mark IX was all about refinement—quiet power wrapped in timeless elegance. The car’s luxurious features and smooth ride made it a favorite among those who appreciated the finer things in life.
With its classic design and advanced engineering, the Mark IX stood out as a symbol of automotive sophistication.
16. Austin-Healey 3000
With its lightweight body and punchy inline-six, the 3000 was Britain’s roadster perfection, made for winding roads and wide grins. The car’s nimble handling and powerful engine made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Whether racing through country lanes or cruising the coast, it was an adventure waiting to happen.