1959 C1 Corvette
1959 Corvette Overview
Contents
Even Bill Mitchell, General Motors Design Chief, commented that the GM Styling practices of that era were too quick to “ladle on chrome with a trowel.” As the 1959 Corvette was nearing production, it was decided that, once again, the design teams would re-visit Corvette and clean up the overall appearance of the car.
Ironically, the 1958 ‘Vette, along with other Chevrolet models, had been the subject of more than a little criticism and ridicule for it’s excessive use of chrome plating and trim.As the previous model year began drawing to a close, Chevrolet basked ever so briefly in the fact that they had finally achieved sales and marketing success with the 1958 Corvette.
| Model: | 1959 Corvette |
| Generation: | C1 Corvette |
| Type: | 2 Door Convertible |
| Available Colors: | Tuxedo Black, Frost Blue, Roman Red, Inca Silver, Classic Cream, Crown Sapphire, Snowcrest White |
| Engine: | 283 ci. V-8 (fuel injected or carbureted) – multiple-horsepower options available |
| VIN: | J59S100001 – J59S109670 |
| Transmission: | 3-speed manual (standard), 4-speed manual (optional), 2-speed Powerglide (optional) |
| Original Price: | $3875.00 |
| Units Produced: | 9,670 |
| Full Spec List | 1959 Corvette Complete Specs |
To the credit of all involved, the 1959 Corvette was “cleaned up” considerably. For one, the chrome “suspenders” were removed from the design, providing Corvette with a more swept back look that was synonymous with speed.
For another, it was decided that the faux hood louvers would be eliminated, returning the Corvette to a semblance of it’s former self.
While these features were key identifiers of the 1958 Corvette, there was no question that the elimination of the excessive chrome would reduce weight and help increase performance.
Much like the exterior of the Corvette, the interior received minor, but significant updates as well. Both the door handles and the armrests were repositioned and a small-item storage compartment was added beneath the passenger side grab bar.
In addition, both the driver and passenger seats were redesigned to offer increased lateral support of their occupants. All tachometers now indicated up to 7,000 rpm and offered redline and safe limit indicators. Sun visors were introduced to the 1959 Corvette as a new option and concave instrument lenses replaced the flat covers of the 1958 Corvette, thereby reducing sun glare (and other reflections) that might cause a driver to become distracted.
Lastly, a T-handle manual transmission lockout was included to prevent drivers from accidentally putting their Corvettes in reverse.
As with the 1958 Corvette before it, the powertrain of the ‘59 Corvette was unchanged from previous years – with one exception: the addition of trailing radius rods.
These trailing rods were introduced to help counteract rear-axle windup, while also contributing to a softer overall ride and noticeably less rear end shifting while driving on uneven or irregular surfaces.
In addition to the trailing radius rods, Chevrolet began offering even stiffer springs as part of the heavy duty brakes/suspension option (RPO 684) that had been originally introduced as an option on the 1957 Corvette.
The addition of both of these new components helped produce consistently better handling and better handling also meant better overall performance, and the 1959 Corvette proved it at the test track. With quarter-mile times of less than 15 seconds and a 0-60 mph time of less than 8 seconds, the 1959 Corvette was considered to be remarkably fast – and notably fast even by today’s standards. The top end “fuelies” (fuel injected) Corvettes were rated at 290 horsepower with a top speed of 128 miles per hour, when mated with the 4.11:1 final drive.
DID YOU KNOW: The 1959 Corvette was the only production year where Chevrolet included an option of purchasing a turquoise soft top. Also, the 1959 Corvette marked the first year where consumers could purchase an all black interior. Lastly, 1959 marked the last year in which Chevy Corvette sold less than 10,000 units in a given model year.
Lastly, the braking system of the 1959 Corvette received some upgrades.
Several factory options including sintered-metallic linings (RPO 686) were introduced under the development of General Motors Delco-Moraine Division.
These new linings were comprised of three pairs of lining segments that were riveted to the primary brake shoe and five pairs of slightly thicker segments for the secondary shoes.
These sintered linings provided for smoother braking while requiring less time to heat up before providing maximum, effective braking.
Chevrolet sales of the 1959 Chevy Corvette totaled 9,670 units, a number that was just shy of the landmark 10,000 units that General Motors was now anxiously hoping to hit with it’s two-seater sports car.
Although Chevy was not yet making a significant profit from sales of the Corvette, it was no longer costing Chevrolet money either. The modest numbers continued to point in the right direction, and both Corvette designers and engineers believed that they were on the brink of surpassing the 10,000 units/year number.
Still, it was now clear that American car enthusiasts were finally embracing the Corvette as a serious sports car which meant that Chevrolet would continue moving forward with the development of an, as yet unrealized, second generation Corvette.
With prototype designs like the exceedingly expensive “Q-Corvette” and Bill Mitchell’s “XP-700” already envisioned, anticipation amongst General Motors executives, engineers and designers was on the rise.
See Also
| C1 | ’53 | ‘54 | ’55 | ’56 | ’57 | ’58 | ’59 | ’60 | ’61 | ’62 |
| Gen | C1 | C2 | C3 | C4 | C5 | C6 | C7 |
1959 Corvette Image Gallery
See full 1959 Corvette Gallery
1959 Corvette Specifications
1959 Corvette Main Specs
| MODEL: | 1959 Chevrolet Corvette |
| BODY STYLE: | Two-door convertible, front engine, rear wheel drive |
| MANUFACTURING LOCATION: | St. Louis, Missouri |
| CONSTRUCTION: | Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP or “fiberglass”) body, steel frame with steel and chrome structural & chassis components. |
| VEHICLE NUMBERS (VIN): | J59S100001 – J59S109670 |
| VIN PREFIX: | CQ: 283 CUBIC INCH, 230 HORSEPOWER, MANUAL TRANSMISSION CR: 283 CUBIC INCH, 250 HORSEPOWER, MANUAL TRANSMISSION CS: 283 CUBIC INCH, 290 HORSEPOWER, MANUAL TRANSMISSION CT: 283 CUBIC INCH, 245 HORSEPOWER, MANUAL TRANSMISSION CU: 283 CUBIC INCH, 270 HORSEPOWER, MANUAL TRANSMISSION DG: 283 CUBIC INCH, 230 HORSEPOWER, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DH: 283 CUBIC INCH, 250 HORSEPOWER, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DJ: 283 CUBIC INCH, 245 HORSEPOWER, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION |
| ENGINE BLOCK NUMBER: | 3737739 (EARLY PRODUCTION), 3756519 |
| HEAD NUMBER: | 3748770, EARLY PRODUCTION 3755550, EARLY PRODUCTION 3767465, LATE PRODUCTION |
| CARBURETOR NUMBERS: | CARTER 2613S #3741089: 283 CUBIC INCH, 270 HP, FRONT CARB CARTER 2614S #3741090: 283 CUBIC INCH, 270 HP, REAR CARB CARTER 2626S #3744002: 283 CUBIC INCH, 245 HP, FRONT CARB CARTER 2627S #3744004: 283 CUBIC INCH, 245 HPR, REAR CARB CARTER 2818S #3756676: 283 CUBIC INCH, 230 HP |
| FUEL INJECTION NUMBER: | ROCHESTER 7014900: 283 CUBIC INCH, 250 HORSEPOWER ROCHESTER 7014900R: 283 CUBIC INCH, 290 HORSEPOWER ROCHESTER 7017200: 283 CUBIC INCH, 250 HORSEPOWER ROCHESTER 7017250: 283 CUBIC INCH, 290 HORSEPOWER |
| DISTRIBUTOR NUMBER: | 1110891: 283 CUBIC INCH, 245 HORSEPOWER, 270 HORSEPOWER 1110914: 283 CUBIC INCH, 290 HORSEPOWER 1110915: 283 CUBIC INCH, 250 HORSEPOWER 1110946: 283 CUBIC INCH, 230 HORSEPOWER |
| GENERATOR NUMBER: | 1102043: 283 CUBIC INCH, 230 HP, 245 HP, 250 HP, 270 HP 1102059: 283 CUBIC INCH, 290 HORSEPOWER, FIRST DESIGN 1102173: 283 CUBIC INCH, 290 HORSEPOWER, SECOND DESIGN |
| AXLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER | AH: 3-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION (3.70:1 RATIO) AE: POWERGLIDE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (3.55:1 RATIO) AN: LIMITED SLIP DIFF (3.70:1 RATIO) AP: LIMITED SLIP DIFF (4.11:1 RATIO) AQ: LIMITED SLIP DIFF (4.56:1 RATIO) AS: LSD, HEAVY DUTY SUSPENSION AND BRAKES, (3.70:1 RATIO) AT:LSD, HEAVY DUTY SUSPENSION AND BRAKES, (4.11:1 RATIO) AU:LSD, HEAVY DUTY SUSPENSION AND BRAKES, (4.56:1 RATIO) FJ: MANUAL TRANSMISSION,LSD. AND METALLIC BRAKES, (3.70:1 RATIO) |
| PRODUCTION ENDING VEHICLE: | SEP, 1958: 100409, OCT. 1958: 100623, NOV. 1958: 101587, DEC. 1958:102641, JAN. 1959: 103962, FEB. 1959: 104921, MAR. 1959: 106033, APR. 1959: 107144, MAY 1959: 107934, JUN. 1959: 108702, JUL. 1959: 109437, AUG. 1959: 109670 |
1959 C1 Corvette Price & Options
| CODE | DESCRIPTION | QUANTITY | RETAIL PRICE |
| 867 | Base Corvette Convertible | 9,670 | $3,875.00 |
| 101 | Heater | 8,909 | $102.25 |
| 102 | AM Radio, signal seeking | 7,001 | $149.80 |
| 107 | Parking Brake Alarm | 3,601 | $5.40 |
| 108 | Courtesy Lights | 3,601 | $6.50 |
| 109 | Windshield Washers | 7,929 | $16.15 |
| 121 | Radiator Fan Clutch | 67 | $21.55 |
| 261 | Sunshades | 3,722 | $10.80 |
| 276 | Wheels, 15 x 5.5 (5) | 214 | $0.00 |
| 290 | Whitewall Tires, 6.70 x 15 | 8,173 | $31.55 |
| 313 | Powerglide Automatic Transmission | 1,878 | $199.10 |
| 419 | Auxillary Hardtop | 5,481 | $236.75 |
| 426 | Power Windows | 587 | $59.20 |
| 440 | Two-Tone Paint Combination | 2,931 | $16.15 |
| 469 | 283ci, 245HP Engine (2×4 Carburetors) | 1,417 | $150.65 |
| 469C | 283ci, 270HP Engine (2×4 Carburetors) | 1,846 | $182.95 |
| 473 | Power Operated Folding Top | 661 | $139.90 |
| 579 | 283ci, 250HP Engine (Fuel Injection) | 175 | $484.20 |
| 579D | 283ci, 290HP Engine (Fuel Injection) | 745 | $484.20 |
| 675 | Positraction Rear Axle | 4,170 | $48.45 |
| 684 | Heavy Duty Brakes and Suspension | 142 | $425.05 |
| 685 | 4-Speed Manual Transmission | 4,175 | $188.30 |
| 686 | Metallic Brakes | 333 | $26.90 |
| 1408 | Blackwall Tires, 6.70 x 15 Nylon | – | – |
| 1625 | 24 Gallon Fuel Tank | – | – |
1959 Corvette Exterior/Interior Colors
| EXTERIOR | TOTAL | BODY COVE | COVE TOTAL | SOFT TOP | WHEELS | INTERIOR |
| Tuxedo Black | 1,594 | Silver | 496 | Black, White | Black | Blue,Black,Red |
| Classic Cream | 223 | White | 89 | Black, White | Black | Black |
| Frost Blue | 1,024 | White | 361 | Blue, Black, White | Black | Blue,Red |
| Crown Sapphire | 888 | White | 420 | Black, Turquoise, White | Black | Turquoise |
| Roman Red | 1,542 | White | 805 | Black, White | Black | Black,Red |
| Snowcrest White | 3,354 | Silver | 535 | Blue, Black, Tq, White | Black | Blue,Black,Red,Tq |
| Inca Silver | 957 | White | 220 | Black, White | Black | Black,Red |
Exterior Color Templates
Interior Color Templates
1959 Corvette Powertrain Specifications
| Description | 4-barrel Carb | Dual Carb | Dual Carb w. Special Cam | Fuel Injection |
Fuel Inj w. Special Cam |
| Standard | RPO 469 | RPO 469C | RPO 579 | RPO 579D | |
| Type: | 90 V | 90 V | 90 V | 90 V | 90 V |
| Number of Cylinders | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Displacement (cid): | 283 | 283 | 283 | 283 | 283 |
| Horsepower (gross @ rpm): | 230hp @ 4,800 | 245hp @ 5,000 | 270hp @ 6,000 | 250hp @ 5,000 | 290hp @ 6,200 |
| Torque (lbs.-ft. @ rpm): | 300 @ 3,000 | 300 @ 3,800 | 285 @ 4,200 | 305 @ 3,800 | 290 @ 4,400 |
| Bore Spacing (C/L to C/L) | 4.4 inches | 4.4 inches | 4.4 inches | 4.4 inches | 4.4 inches |
| Bore x stroke (in.): | 3.875 x 3.00 | 3.875 x 3.00 | 3.875 x 3.00 | 3.875 x 3.00 | 3.875 x 3.00 |
| Redline (rpm): | – | – | – | – | – |
| Compression ratio: | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Idle Speed (RPM) | 475 in neutral w/3-speed | 475 in neutral w/3-speed | 475 in neutral w/3-speed | 475 in neutral w/3-speed | 475 in neutral w/3-speed |
| Engine Weight (Dry) | |||||
| Automatic | 779 | 779 | 779 | 779 | 779 |
| Manual | 678 | 678 | 678 | 678 | 678 |
| Firing Order: | 18436572 | 18436572 | 18436572 | 18436572 | 18436572 |
| Cylinder Number System; | |||||
| Left Bank: | 1-3-5-7 | 1-3-5-7 | 1-3-5-7 | 1-3-5-7 | 1-3-5-7 |
| Right Bank: | 2-4-6-8 | 2-4-6-8 | 2-4-6-8 | 2-4-6-8 | 2-4-6-8 |
| Recommended Fuel: | 94-96 Premium Octane | 94-96 Premium Octane | 94-96 Premium Octane | 94-96 Premium Octane | 94-96 Premium Octane |
| EPA – Four-Speed Manual Transmission – Average: |
14.3 mpg (Motor Life) | – | 14.6 mpg (Motor Trend) | 10 mpg (Sports Car Illustrated) |
Carburetor Engine Component Specifications
| Description | Standard 230hp | RPO 469 245hp | RPO 469C 270hp |
| Upper Compression Ring: | |||
| Material | Cast alloy iron | Cast alloy iron | Cast alloy iron |
| Width | .184 — .194 | .184 — .194 | .184 — .194 |
| Thickness | .0775 — .0780 | .0775 — .0780 | .0775 — .0780 |
| Gap | .010 — .020 | .010 — .020 | .010 — .020 |
| Ring Clearance | .0012 — .0017 | .0012 — .0017 | .0012 — .0017 |
| Valve Springs: | |||
| Length & Pressure | |||
| Valve closed | [email protected] 69 — 79 lb. | [email protected] 69 — 79 lb. | [email protected] 69 — 79 lb. |
| Valve open | [email protected] 159 — 169 lb. | [email protected] 159 — 169 lb. | [email protected] 159 — 169 lb. |
| Free length | 2.08 | 2.08 | 2.08 |
| Damper: | |||
| Number of coils | 3.874 — 4.12 | 3.874 — 4.12 | 3.874 — 4.12 |
| Free length | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 |
| Tappets: | |||
| Type | Hydraulic | Hydraulic | Hydraulic |
| Material | Steel | Steel | Steel |
| Carburetor: | |||
| Make | Carter | Carter | Carter |
| Model | 3756676 | ||
| front | – | 3744002 | 3741089 |
| rear | – | 3744004 | 3741090 |
| Type | 4 barrel, down-draft | 4 barrel | 4 barrel |
| Choke | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Camshaft: | |||
| Ramp inlet | |||
| Opening | .00474, 10° long | .00474, 10° long | .0067, 18° long |
| Closing | .00670, 15° long | .00670, 15° long | .0067, 18° long |
| Ramp exhaust | |||
| Opening | .00474, 10° long | .00474, 10° long | .0107, 29° long |
| Closing | .00670, 15° long | .00670, 15° long | .0107, 29° long |
| Tappet Lift | |||
| Inlet | .26581 | .26581 | .2625 |
| Exhaust | .26581 | .26581 | .2625 |
| Valve lift | |||
| Inlet | 0.3987 | 0.3987 | 0.39375 |
| Exhaust | 0.3987 | 0.3987 | 0.39375 |
| Valve lash (normal driving) | |||
| Inlet | Zero | Zero | .012 hot |
| Exhaust | Zero | Zero | .018 hot |
| Timing Diagram Data: | |||
| Inlet | |||
| Opens (theoretical) | 12° 30′ BTC | 12° 30′ BTC | 35° BTC |
| Closes (theoretical) | 57° 30′ ABC | 57° 30′ ABC | 72° ABC |
| Exhaust | |||
| Opens (theoretical) | 54° 30′ BBC | 54° 30′ BBC | 76° BBC |
| Closes (theoretical) | 15° 30′ ATC | 15° 30′ ATC | 31° ATC |
| Clutch: | |||
| Type | Semi-centrifugal | Semi-centrifugal | Semi-centrifugal |
| Number of coil springs | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| Spring pressure (lbs.) | 1620 Initial | 1620 Initial | 1620 Initial |
| Drive | Lug | Lug | Lug |
| Lining area (sq. in.) | 90.72 | 90.72 | 90.72 |
| Rated torque capacity (lb. ft.) | 326 | 326 | 326 |
| Air Cleaner: | |||
| Make and Type | AC oil wetted | AC oil bath | AC oil bath |
| Capacity | – | 1 Pint | 1 Pint |
| Filter Element | Aluminum wire | cactus fiber | cactus fiber |
| Oil Filter: | |||
| Make | AC, Full flow | AC, Full flow | AC, Full flow |
| Capacity (Quartz) | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Dual Exhaust System: | |||
| Muffler Type | Diffusion & resonance, reverse flow |
Diffusion & resonance, reverse flow |
Diffusion & resonance, reverse flow |
| Body Size | 24×4.06 | 24×4.06 | 24×4.06 |
| Manifold | Center take down each branch serving two cylinders | Center take down each branch serving two cylinders | Center take down each branch serving two cylinders |
| Exhaust Pipe Size O.D | 2.0 | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| Tall Pipe I.D | 1.81 | 1.81 | 1.81 |
| Suspension | Individual, rubber insulated mountings. |
Individual, rubber insulated mountings. |
Individual, rubber insulated mountings. |
| Fuel System: | |||
| Fuel Tank | Two stamped pans seam welded |
Two stamped pans seam welded |
Two stamped pans seam welded |
| Capacity (gallons) | 16.4 | 16.4 | 16.4 |
| Mounting | Support by two straps attached to underbody behind seat | Support by two straps attached to underbody behind seat | Support by two straps attached to underbody behind seat |
| Filler | In body left side, to rear of driver’s door | In body left side, to rear of driver’s door | In body left side, to rear of driver’s door |
| Cooling System: | |||
| Radiator core | |||
| Make | Harrison | Harrison | Harrison |
| Type | Cellular | Cellular | Cellular |
| Size | .20x.560 x 2.00 | .20x.560 x 2.00 | .20x.560 x 2.00 |
| Frontal Area (sq. in) | 340 | 340 | 340 |
| Capacity | 16.5 qts. with heater | 16.5 qts. with heater | 16.5 qts. with heater |
Fuelie (Fuel Injected) Engine Component Specifications
| Description | (RPO 579 250hp) | (RPO 579D 290hp) |
| Upper Compression Ring: | ||
| Material | Cast alloy iron | Cast alloy iron |
| Width | .184 -.194 | .184 – .194 |
| Thickness | 0775 – .0780 | 0775 – .0780 |
| Gap | .010 – 0.020 | .010 – 0.020 |
| Ring Clearance | .0012 – .0017 | .0012 – .0017 |
| Valve Springs: | ||
| Length & Pressure | ||
| Valve closed | [email protected] 69 — 79 lb | [email protected] 69 — 79 lb |
| Valve open | [email protected] 159 — 169 lb. | [email protected] 159 — 169 lb. |
| Free length | 2.08 | 2.08 |
| Damper: | ||
| Number of coils | 3.874 — 4.12 | 3.874 — 4.12 |
| Free length | 2.00 | 2.00 |
| Tappets: | ||
| Type | Hydraulic | Hydraulic |
| Material | Steel | Steel |
| Manifold assembly, inlet: | ||
| Material | Cast aluminum | Cast aluminum |
| Fuel: | ||
| System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Make | Rochester Products | Rochester Products |
| Fuel Filter: | ||
| Make | AC | AC |
| Model | GF43 | GF43 |
| Location | Mounted on engine top cover | Mounted on engine top cover |
| Camshaft: | ||
| Ramp inlet | ||
| Opening | .00474, 10° long | .00474, 10° long |
| Closing | .00670, 15° long | .00670, 15° long |
| Ramp exhaust | ||
| Opening | .00474, 10° long | .0107, 29° long |
| Closing | .00670, 15° long | .0107, 29° long |
| Tappet Lift | ||
| Inlet | .26581 | .2625 |
| Exhaust | .26581 | .2625 |
| Valve Lift | ||
| Inlet | .3987 | .39375 |
| Exhaust | .3987 | .39375 |
| Valve lash (normal driving) | ||
| Inlet | Zero | .008 hot |
| Exhaust | Zero | .018 hot |
| Timing Diagram Data: | ||
| Inlet | ||
| Opens (theoretical) | 12° 30′ BTC | 35° BTC |
| Closes (theoretical) | 57° 30′ ABC | 72° ABC |
| Exhaust | ||
| Opens (theoretical) | 54° 30′ BBC | 76° BBC |
| Closes (theoretical) | 15° 30′ ATC | 31° ATC |
| Clutch: | ||
| Type | Semi-centrifugal | Semi-centrifugal |
| Number of coil springs | 9 | 9 |
| Spring pressure (lbs.) | 1620 initial | 1620 initial |
| Drive | Lug | Lug |
| Lining area (sq. in.) | 90.72 | 90.72 |
| Rated torque capacity (lb. ft.) | 326 | 326 |
| Air Cleaner: | ||
| Make | AC | AC |
| Type | Dry | Dry |
| Filter Element | Paper | Paper |
| Oil Filter: | ||
| Make | AC, Full flow | AC, Full flow |
| Capacity (Quartz) | 1 | 1 |
| Dual Exhaust System: | ||
| Muffler Type | Diffusion & resonance, reverse flow | Straight thru |
| Body Size | 24×4.06 | |
| Manifold | Center take down each branch serving two cylinders | |
| Exhaust Pipe Size O.D | 2.0 | |
| Tall Pipe I.D | 1.81 | |
| Suspension | Individual, rubber insulated mountings. |
|
| Fuel System: | ||
| Fuel Tank | Two stamped pans seam welded | Two stamped pans seam welded |
| Capacity (gallons) | 16.4 | 16.4 |
| Mounting | Support by two straps attached to underbody behind seat | Support by two straps attached to underbody behind seat |
| Filler | In body left side, to rear of driver’s door | In body left side, to rear of driver’s door |
| Cooling System: | ||
| Radiator core | ||
| Make | Harrison | Harrison |
| Type | Cellular | Cellular |
| Size | .22x.550 x 2.00 | .22x.550 x 2.00 |
| Frontal Area (sq. in) | 380 | 380 |
| Capacity | 16.5 qts. with heater | 16.5 qts. with heater |
Manual Transmission / Gear Ratios
| 3-Speed Close Ratio | 4-Speed (RPO 685) | |
| 1st Gear: | 2.21:1 | 2.20:1 |
| 2nd Gear: | 1.32:1 | 1.66:1 |
| 3rd Gear: | 1.00:1 | 1:31:1 |
| 4th Gear: | N/A | 1.00:1 |
| Reverse: | 2.51:1 | 2.26:1 |
Powerglide Automatic Transmission RPO 313/ Gear Ratios
| Drive | 1.82-1:1 |
| Low | 1.82:1 |
| Reverse | 1.82:1 |
1959 Corvette Brakes, Wheels & Suspension
| Front Suspension | Unitized, Independant, Short and Long Arm |
| Front Springs: | Own, coil |
| Make & Type | Chrome alloy steel .547 — .553 |
| Material & Gauges | Total 9.75; active 7.94 |
| Number of Coils | Outside 4.30; pitch 3.752 |
| Diameter | Free 13.45; working [email protected] 1245 lb. |
| Height | 9.72 |
| Height Under Curb Weight | 800 lb. |
| Capacity At Ground | |
| Deflection Rate | |
| At Spring | 300 lb. |
| At Wheel | 110 lb. |
| Front Shock Absorbers: | |
| Make & Type | Delco, direct double acting |
| Mounting | Vertically from lower control arm through coil spring to front suspension crossmember |
| Model Number | 538F |
| Valve Code | 3.5G6/axr/P 1.25 |
| Piston Diameter and Travel | 1.00×4.68 |
| Rear Suspension | Outrigger mounted semi-elliptical leaf springs |
| Rear Springs: | Own, coil |
| Make & Type | Own, semi-elliptic |
| Material | Alloy steel |
| Length & Width | 51×2.0 |
| Spring Slips | Clinch type = 3, Bolt type = 1, Total = 4 |
| Number of Leaves | 4 |
| Leaf Thickness | Number 1 & 3 = .282, Number 2 = .313, Total = 1.159 |
| Capacity | At pad = 575 lb., At ground = 725 lb. |
| Rear Shock Absorbers: | |
| Make & Type | Delco, direct double acting |
| Mounting | Stem attached to slotted holes in flanged “U” shaped rear crossmember, eye attached at bottom to an anchor bolt on rear spring “U” bolt and shock absorber anchor bolt plate |
| Model Number | 560P |
| Valve Code | 4D6/oxh/j 1.25 |
| Piston Diameter and Travel | 1.0×6.69 |
| Brakes: | |
| Type: | Servo – 4 Wheel Hydraulic (Heavy Duty, RPO 684 Optional) |
| Power brake type: | None |
| Drum diameter, front (in.): | 11 |
| Drum diameter, rear (in.): | 11 |
| Effective area (sq. in.): | 157 (121 with Heavy Duty brake option) |
| Wheels/Tires | |
| Wheel Type (Standard): | Short Spoke Disk, Pressed Steel |
| Tire Size | 6.70 — 15 — 4 Ply Tubeless (standard), 6.70 — 15 — 4 Ply White & Blackwall (optional) |
| Front & Rear Wheels: | 15″ |
| Tires, type: | Rayon Cord |
| Revolutions at 30mph: | 760 |
| Inflation (cold) | 24 lbs. Front & Rear |
| Steering | |
| Type: | Semi-reversible recirculating ball |
| Make: | Saginaw |
| Ratio: | 16.0:1 |
| Wheel Diameter (in): | 17 |
| Turns, Stop to Start | – |
| Turn Diameter (curb to curb) | 36.5 ft. right — 37 ft. left (outside front), 38.5 ft. right — 39 ft. left (outside front) |
1959 Corvette Exterior Dimensions
| Exterior Dimensions (Hardtop) | Interior Dimensions (Hardtop) | ||
| Wheelbase: | 102 Inches | Headroom: | 35.1 Inches |
| Overall Length: | 177.2 Inches | Shoulder Room: | 49.4 Inches |
| Total Body Width: | 72.8 Inches | Hip Room: | 59.6 Inches |
| Overall Height: | 51.5 Inches | Leg Room: | 45.1 Inches |
| Front Track Width: | 57 Inches | ||
| Rear Track Width: | 59 Inches | ||
| Min. Ground Clearance | 5.9 Inches | ||
| Exterior Dimensions (Soft top) | Interior Dimensions (Soft top) | ||
| Wheelbase: | 102 Inches | Headroom: | 35.3 Inches |
| Overall Length: | 177.2 Inches | Shoulder Room: | 49.4 Inches |
| Total Body Width: | 72.8 Inches | Hip Room: | 59.6 Inches |
| Overall Height: | 51.6 Inches | Leg Room: | 45.1 Inches |
| Front Track Width: | 57 Inches | ||
| Rear Track Width: | 59 Inches | ||
| Min. Ground Clearance | 5.9 Inches | ||
| Capacities | |
| Passenger Capacity: | 2 Passengers |
| Curb Weight (LBS/KG): | |
| Manual | 3,033 |
| Automatic | 3,135 |
| Interior Passenger Volume (cu.ft): | – |
| Interior Trunk Volume (cu. ft): | 4.474 |
| Fuel Capacity (gallons): | 16.4 |
| Engine Oil Capacity (qts.): | 5 (capacity of crankcase less filter – refill) |
| Coolant Capacity (qts.): | 16.5 (with heater) |
| Battery: | 12 volt, 54-plate, 53AH |
1959 Corvette Performance
| Performance Results | Standard | RPO 469 | RPO 469C | RPO 579 | RPO 579 |
| 3-Speed Transmission | |||||
| Performance weight (lbs.) | 3204 | 3214 | 3214 | 3191 | 3191 |
| Pounds/gross horsepower | 13.93 | 13.12 | 11.90 | 12.78 | 11.00 |
| Pounds/cu.in. piston displacement | 11.33 | 11.36 | 11.36 | 11.24 | 11.24 |
| Gross horsepower/cu.in. displacement | .813 | .866 | .954 | .883 | 1.025 |
| Power displacement (cu.ft./mile) | 228.7 | 228.7 | 228.7 | 228.7 | 228.7 |
| Displacement factor (cu.ft./mile) | 142.94 | 142.94 | 142.94 | 143.34 | 143.34 |
| 0 – 60 mph (seconds) | 9.2 | 7.6 – | – | – | – |
| Top Speed (mph) | 103.1 | 112 | – | – | – |
| Powerglide Transmission | |||||
| Performance weight (lbs.) | 3305 | 3314 | 3288 | ||
| Pounds/gross horsepower | 14.37 | 13.53 | 13.15 | ||
| Pounds/cu.in. piston displacement | 11.68 | 11.71 | 11.62 | ||
| Gross horsepower/cu.in. displacement | .813 | .866 | .883 | ||
| Power displacement (cu.ft./mile) | 219.5 | 219.5 | 219.5 | ||
| Displacement factor (cu.ft./mile) | 132.83 | 132.47 | 133.52 | ||
| 0 – 60 mph (seconds) | – | – | – | ||
| Top Speed (mph) | – | – | – | ||
| 4-Speed Transmission | |||||
| Performance weight (lbs.) | 3217 | 3227 | 3227 | 3204 | 3204 |
| Pounds/gross horsepower | 13.90 | 13.17 | 11.95 | 12.82 | 11.05 |
| Pounds/cu.in. piston displacement | 11.37 | 11.40 | 11.40 | 11.32 | 11.32 |
| Gross horsepower/cu.in. displacement | .813 | .866 | .954 | .883 | 1.025 |
| Power displacement (cu.ft./mile) | 228.7 | 228.7 | 228.7 | 228.7 | 228.7 |
| Displacement factor (cu.ft./mile) | 142.18 | 141.74 | 141.74 | 142.76 | 142.76 |
| 0 – 60 mph (seconds) | – | – | – | – | 6.9 |
| Top Speed (mph) | – | – | – | 113.6 | 118.7 |
(0 – 60 and top speed times courtesy of ML – Motor Life, September 1959, MT – Motortrend, April 1959, R&T – Road and Track, January 1959)
1959 Corvette Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN)
| VIN Range | J59S100001 – J59S109670 |
| J (First Digit) | General Motors Identification Code for Chevy Corvette. |
| 58 (Second & Third Digits) | Model Year |
| S (Fourth Digit) | Location of the Assembly Plant. S – St. Louis, Missouri. |
| 1XXXXX (Fifth thru Tenth Digits) | Production Sequence Numbers |
The last six digits begin at 100001 and run thru 109670, accounting for each of the 9,670 Corvettes built in 1959. Each Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is unique to an individual car. For all 1959 Corvettes, the location of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the driver side door post. The VIN is also stamped on several locations on the Corvette frame.
1959 Corvette Factory Options
| CODE | DESCRIPTION | QUANTITY | RETAIL PRICE |
| 867 | Base Corvette Convertible | 9,670 | $3,875.00 |
| 101 | Heater | 8,909 | $102.25 |
| 102 | AM Radio, signal seeking | 7,001 | $149.80 |
| 107 | Parking Brake Alarm | 3,601 | $5.40 |
| 108 | Courtesy Lights | 3,601 | $6.50 |
| 109 | Windshield Washers | 7,929 | $16.15 |
| 121 | Radiator Fan Clutch | 67 | $21.55 |
| 261 | Sunshades | 3,722 | $10.80 |
| 276 | Wheels, 15 x 5.5 (5) | 214 | $0.00 |
| 290 | Whitewall Tires, 6.70 x 15 | 8,173 | $31.55 |
| 313 | Powerglide Automatic Transmission | 1,878 | $199.10 |
| 419 | Auxillary Hardtop | 5,481 | $236.75 |
| 426 | Power Windows | 587 | $59.20 |
| 440 | Two-Tone Paint Combination | 2,931 | $16.15 |
| 469 | 283ci, 245HP Engine (2×4 Carburetors) | 1,417 | $150.65 |
| 469C | 283ci, 270HP Engine (2×4 Carburetors) | 1,846 | $182.95 |
| 473 | Power Operated Folding Top | 661 | $139.90 |
| 579 | 283ci, 250HP Engine (Fuel Injection) | 175 | $484.20 |
| 579D | 283ci, 290HP Engine (Fuel Injection) | 745 | $484.20 |
| 675 | Positraction Rear Axle | 4,170 | $48.45 |
| 684 | Heavy Duty Brakes and Suspension | 142 | $425.05 |
| 685 | 4-Speed Manual Transmission | 4,175 | $188.30 |
| 686 | Metallic Brakes | 333 | $26.90 |
| 1408 | Blackwall Tires, 6.70 x 15 Nylon | – | – |
| 1625 | 24 Gallon Fuel Tank | – | – |
Base Corvette Roadster (867)
- The base price of the 1959 Chevrolet Corvette without any optional equipment.
- This base option price included a 283 cubic inch, 230 horsepower V8 engine, 3-speed manual transmission, vinyl interior trim, and a soft top.
- The 1959 Corvette’s exterior appearance is very similar to the 1958 except that it does not have the simulated hood louvers or the twin chrome trunk “suspenders”.
Heater (101) – An interior space/cockpit heater.
- The 1959 Corvette heater has an “outside” fresh air type heater.
AM Radio, signal seeking (102)
- A standard Delco, signal seeking AM radio with conventional volume and selector bars.
- The AM Radios for the 1959 Corvette are transistorized.
- Most 1959 selector bars for the signal-seeking feature included the word “Wonderbar”.
- Models not equipped with this option received a painted block-out cover plate.
Parking Brake Alarm (107)
- A warning light that illuminates/ indicates when the parking brake is applied.
Courtesy Lights (108)
- Interior lights mounted on the interior of the car to aid in visibility when outside lighting is unavailable.
Windshield Washers (109)
- A washer pump and dispensing nozzle mechanism that dispenses cleaner onto the windshield.
The optional 1959 washer reservoir is mounted on the left side for all carbureted engines and on the right side for all fuel injected engines. Right side mounted reservoirs are protected by a heat shield.
Radiator Fan Clutch (121)
- A thermostatically controlled clutch that disengages the radiator fan during engine operation.
- New to the 1959 Corvette, this feature allowed for increased horsepower and better fuel efficiency by disengaging the fan during “cool” engine operation.
Sunshades (261)
- Also known as a sun visor, this fold down shade blocks sunlight during vehicle operation.
- The 1959 Corvette was the first model to feature sunshades.
- Included both driver and passenger sunshades.
Wheels, 15×5.5 (276)
- Optional wheels that were one-half inch wider than stock.
- Featured small, passenger car hubcaps instead of standard, full wheel disc covers.
Whitewall Tires (290)
- Original tires were either U.S. Royal Air Ride, B.G. Goodrich Silvertown or Firestone Deluxe Champion.
- All tires were wide-whitewall type, with whitewall widths varying from 2.5 to 3 inches.
Powerglide Automatic Transmission (313)
- An “optional” two-speed automatic transmission developed by GM.
Auxiliary Hardtop (419)
- An optional hard-top that replaced the standard convertible top.
- Although the Auxiliary Hardtop is shown as an option, customers could swap the convertible top for the auxiliary hard top at no additional cost. Of the 5,481 Corvettes sold with this option, 1,695 of them were the result of this substitution.
Power Windows (426)
- Electronically controlled windows which could be raised or lowered during vehicle operation.
Two-Tone Paint Combination (440)
- A second, optional paint color that was used to highlight the bodyside coves.
- A total of 2,931 Corvettes featured the two-tone paint scheme in 1959. Of these, 805 were painted Roman Red/White, 535 were painted Snowcrest White/Silver, 496 were painted Tuxedo Black/Silver, 420 were painted Crown Sapphire/White, 361 were painted Frost Blue/White, 220 were painted Inca Silver/White, and 89 were painted Classic Cream/White.
283 CI, 245 HP Engine (2×4 Carburetors) (469)
- A “high output” version of the standard 283 CI, 230 HP engine.
- 1,417 of the 1959 Corvettes were built with this engine.
283 CI, 270 HP Engine (2×4 Carburetors) (469C)
- A “high output” version of the standard 283 CI, 230 HP engine.
- 1,846 of the 1959 Corvettes were built with this engine.
Power Operated Folding Top (473)
- Electronically controlled convertible top that could be automatically raised/lowered.
- Unlike the 1953-1955 Corvette Roadsters, which had an optional top that could be attached to the car, this convertible top was an integral part of the design, allowing the 1959 Corvette to be classified as a true convertible.
283 CI, 250 HP Engine (Fuel Injected) (579)
- A “high output” version of the standard 283 CI, 230 HP engine.
- 175 of the 1959 Corvettes were built with this engine.
283 CI, 290 HP Engine (Fuel Injected) (579D)
- A “high output” version of the standard 283 CI, 230 HP engine.
- 745 of the 1959 Corvettes were built with this engine.
Positraction Rear Axle (675)
- A “limited slip” rear axle that engages both rear wheels as drive wheels.
- For 1959, this option required that the Corvette have a manual transmission.
- Of the total 4,170 Corvettes built with this option, 1,362 had a 3.70:1 ratio, 2,523 had a 4.11:1 ratio, and 285 had a 4.56:1 ratio.
Heavy Duty Racing Suspension (684)
- Modified suspension system featuring a number of performance/handling upgrades.
- Included special front and rear springs and shock absorbers, a heavier front stabilizer bar, quick steering adapter, metallic brakes, finned brake drums, fresh air ducting to rear brakes (early models only), and front brake air deflectors.
- Positraction rear axle, manual transmission and either the 290 Horsepower, 283 Cubic Inch Fuel Injected V-8 Engine OR the 270
- Horsepower, 283 Cubic Inch Carbureted (2×4 Carbs) V-8 engine was required.
4-Speed Manual Transmission (685)
- An optional four-speed, close ratio, syncromesh manual transmission.
- This option included a “T” handle with positve reverse lockout – an option featured for the first time on the 1959 Corvette.
Metallic Brakes (686)
- Optional sintered-metallic brake linings which increases braking effectiveness.
- They comprised of three pairs of lining segments that were riveted to the primary brake shoes and five pairs of slightly thicker segments for the secondary shoes.
- Drums were finless with this option but were flared at their open ends to enhance cooling.
- The sintered linings made braking less harsh than the Cerametallic material and needed far less warming up to provide maximum braking effectiveness.
- They were developed by GM’s Delco-Moraine Division.
Blackwall Tires, 6.70×15 Nylon (1408)
- Optional black sidewall tires to replace the standard white sidewall.
- It is uncertain how many Corvettes were ordered with this option.
24 Gallon Fuel Tank (1625)
- Special fiberglass fuel tank that allowed for greater fuel mileage.
- Replaced standard tank
- Available only with the removable hardtop (due to spacing limitations created because of the increased storage space
1959 Corvette Dealers Sales Brochure
Download this 1959 Corvette Dealers Sales Brochure for a quick look at the features of the car.
Download 1959 Corvette Dealers Sales Brochure
See Also
| C1 | ’53 | ‘54 | ’55 | ’56 | ’57 | ’58 | ’59 | ’60 | ’61 | ’62 |
| Gen | C1 | C2 | C3 | C4 | C5 | C6 | C7 |
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