The Chevrolet Impala stands as the best-selling full-size car in American history, with over 12 million units sold between 1958 and 2002. In fact, this legendary vehicle achieved an unprecedented milestone in 1965, selling more than one million units in a single year.

The 1959 Chevrolet Impala marked a significant evolution in automotive design, featuring a revolutionary X-frame chassis and sharing bodyshells with premium brands like Buick, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac. As we explore the journey of this iconic car, we'll uncover how its distinctive "teardrop" taillights and wider body transformed the landscape of American automotive design. From its early concept sketches to its final production model, the story of the 1959 Impala represents a pivotal moment in automotive history that continues to captivate enthusiasts today.

The Birth of a Design Revolution

The story of the 1959 Chevrolet Impala began as a concept in 1956 when Chevrolet unveiled a prototype at GM's motor show. Initially introduced as the top-of-the-range Bel Air, the Impala's journey from concept to production showcased GM's ability to adapt swiftly to changing market demands.

Early concept sketches and inspiration

The design evolution of the 1959 Impala underwent a dramatic transformation after GM designers glimpsed Chrysler's Forward Look cars in late 1956. Subsequently, the early clay models created in 1957 displayed a stark contrast to the final design. Although, one notable element persisted throughout - the horizontal blades at the rear, initially paired with vertical fins.

The preliminary sketches featured bulky, bottom-heavy attempts that gradually evolved into longer, more adventurous designs. The front-end styling remained particularly fluid during development, with designers experimenting with various configurations, including headlamps stacked in the center of the grille.

Key design team members

Under the guidance of GM's design team, the 1959 Impala emerged as one of the most distinctive vehicles of its era. The designers focused on creating clean lines while maintaining the car's dramatic presence. Their meticulous attention to detail resulted in a design that balanced innovation with practicality.

The team's commitment to excellence manifested in numerous subtle modifications. For instance, they carefully refined the trim and fitment throughout the body, ensuring every element served both form and function. As one designer noted, "We just kind of went through and touched on some of the details and cleaned things up".

Initial public reactions

When Chevrolet presented the prototype, the public's response was overwhelmingly positive. Nevertheless, the final production model's bold styling proved polarizing. Middle America, along with other regions across the United States and Canada, initially approached the distinctive design with hesitation.

The 1959 Impala's appearance was unquestionably radical for its time. Nothing else on the market matched its extreme styling, particularly those distinctive rear wings that seemed to defy conventional automotive design. The car's width, matching that of the more expensive Buick, further distinguished it from its predecessors.

Despite some initial skepticism, the Impala's sales figures told a compelling story. The first iteration in 1958 achieved remarkable success:

• 256,000 two-door sedans sold
• 142,000 two-door sport coupes delivered
• Nearly 56,000 convertibles purchased

By 1959, the Impala had established itself as a standalone series, breaking away from its Bel Air origins. Although it shared the same platform, engine, and basic styling elements with other full-size Chevrolet models, the Impala received unprecedented attention and acclaim.

The design's impact extended beyond American shores. In international markets, where American cars were considered luxury items, the 1959 Impala stood out dramatically against the backdrop of smaller domestic vehicles. Its presence on foreign roads often drew amazed reactions from onlookers, who marveled at its substantial proportions and distinctive styling.

This bold design direction, although short-lived, set a new benchmark for automotive styling. GM quickly moderated its approach in subsequent years, making the 1959 Impala a unique milestone in automotive design history. The car's influence continues to resonate, with modern customizers and restoration specialists still drawing inspiration from its groundbreaking design elements.

From Paper to Prototype

Dramatic changes swept through General Motors' design studios as Chrysler's innovative styling prompted a complete redesign program for the 1959 Chevrolet Impala. This unexpected shift marked the beginning of an intensive development phase that would redefine American automotive esthetics.

First clay models

The initial clay models showcased a radical departure from conventional design principles. The design team focused on creating a lower, sleeker stance highlighted by a full-width grille with headlights positioned at the outer edges. Moreover, the two-door hardtops featured a distinctive thin rear C-Pillar that conveyed a sense of lightness and speed.

Clare MacKichan's design team, alongside Pontiac designers, established the basic packaging and dimensions for their shared 1958 General Motors 'A' body in June. The first styling sketch that directly influenced the final Chevrolet automobile caught the attention of General Motors Styling Vice President Harley Earl in October. Afterward, the basic design underwent seven months of intensive development before reaching its final form.

Design refinements

The development process brought significant modifications to the original concept. The design team meticulously shaped new metal to replace anything that appeared questionable. Specifically, the areas around the headlight bezels underwent extensive refinement, with the fit and finish surpassing stock specifications.

One of the most significant innovations involved abandoning the standard perimeter-type frame in favor of a unit with rails configured in an elongated 'X' pattern. This modification enabled Chevrolet to claim increased torsional rigidity and allowed for a lower placement of the passenger compartment. Additionally, the body structure received reinforcement in the rocker panels and firewall.

The most striking design element emerged at the rear, where the gull-wing fins extended over the cat's eye taillights. Unlike most tailfins of the era that protruded upward, the 1959 Chevy's flattened fins stretched outward. The taillights adopted a long teardrop design, wrapped in thick chrome trim.

Final prototype approval

The final prototype represented a transitional step between traditional construction and the later fully unitized body/chassis design. The engineering team replaced the previous year's rear leaf springs with a coil spring suspension system. Furthermore, they offered an optional air-ride system to enhance ride comfort.

The approved design allowed the 1959 Chevrolet Impala to share bodyshells with lower-end Pontiacs, Buicks, and Oldsmobiles, significantly reducing General Motors' production costs. This strategic decision proved beneficial as the 1958 models helped Chevrolet reclaim the number-one production spot amid a recession year.

The prototype's success became evident through impressive production numbers:

• 55,989 Impala convertibles manufactured
• 125,480 coupes produced Together, these models represented 15% of Chevrolet's total production.

The development process concluded with several groundbreaking features that set new industry standards. The engineering team's commitment to innovation resulted in a car that was longer, lower, and wider than its predecessors. Consequently, the 1959 Chevrolet Impala emerged as one of the most distinctive vehicles of its era, establishing itself as a cornerstone of American automotive design.

Engineering Innovations of 1959 Impala

Behind the striking design of the 1959 Chevrolet Impala lay groundbreaking engineering advancements that redefined automotive performance standards. The engineering team's dedication to innovation resulted in mechanical improvements that matched the car's bold exterior.

New chassis design

The most significant engineering breakthrough came through the introduction of a revolutionary X-frame chassis. This innovative design replaced the traditional perimeter-type frame with rails configured in an elongated 'X' pattern. The sturdy 3"x4" main rails, coupled with specially designed crossmembers, provided exceptional stiffness alongside ample clearance for the exhaust system.

The widened center frame design, utilizing 3"x4"x.180"-wall tubing, markedly enhanced stiffness compared to factory X-frame designs. This structural improvement addressed a crucial weakness in the original chassis, which tended to flex dramatically under increased horsepower, higher spring rates, and enhanced braking systems.

Motor mounts offered remarkable versatility, accommodating:

• Small and big block V8 engines
• W block (348-409) powerplants
• Late model LS/LT configurations
• Various automatic and manual transmissions

Another notable advancement involved the implementation of a two-piece driveshaft, which effectively reduced vibration and minimized floorboard modifications. This innovation provided smoother driveline performance through accommodations for a driveshaft carrier bearing.

Suspension improvements

The engineering team completely reimagined the suspension system, introducing several pioneering features. At the front, they incorporated a Sport IFS (Independent Front Suspension) with tubular control arms, Wilwood ProSpindles, and adjustable Strange Engineering coilovers. This configuration excelled in both freeway stability and high-speed cornering performance.

The rear suspension offered three distinct options:

1. A triangulated 4-bar system with a 9" housing
2. Air Springs configuration
3. An exemplary Multilink IRS with coilovers

The suspension package included sophisticated components such as:

• NASCAR-style sway bars
• Power rack & pinion steering
• Aluminum front wheel hubs with bearings
• Teflon-lined heim joints for quiet, bind-free operation

Air Ride Technologies provided remarkable versatility with a 6-inch drop capability in both front and rear positions. The engineering team enhanced handling characteristics through the integration of Hotchkis suspension components, including:

• 1½-inch front sway bars
• 1-inch rear sway bars
• Enhanced upper and lower control arms in the rear
• An adjustable Panhard bar

The suspension geometry underwent meticulous refinement to achieve optimal performance. The modern geometry of the Sport IFS particularly stood out in delivering superior freeway stability alongside exceptional high-speed cornering capabilities. Simultaneously, the engineering team prioritized ride comfort, ensuring the suspension system balanced performance with everyday drivability.

The installation process remained remarkably straightforward, as the design integrated all original X-frame mounting points. Rather than requiring complete floor pan removal, the system necessitated only strategic slotting near the rocker panel, with welded channels containing three holes on each side for additional body mounts.

This comprehensive engineering approach yielded practical benefits beyond performance. The design offered enhanced exhaust clearance compared to the stock X-frame, alongside the capability to run a single-piece driveshaft. Furthermore, the chassis accommodated up to 345mm-wide rear tires with minimal modifications, requiring only minitubbed wheel wells and the relocation of one stock body mount.

The 1959 Chevrolet Impala Launch

Fall 1958 marked a pivotal moment as Chevrolet unveiled its groundbreaking 1959 lineup to eager audiences across America. The launch campaign featured television advertisements starring Dinah Shore and Pat Boone, introducing the completely redesigned models to households nationwide.

Dealer showcase events

Chevrolet dealerships across the country organized elaborate showcase events to present the new Impala. The model lineup expanded strategically, with the Biscayne becoming the entry-level option and the Impala ascending to flagship status. The pricing structure reflected this hierarchy:

• The Nomad 6-passenger 4-door wagon commanded the highest price at USD 3,009
• The base models started just under USD 3,000

A notable addition to the showcase was the El Camino, Chevrolet's innovative pickup-style vehicle that debuted alongside the 1959 Impala. This versatile model quickly gained popularity among farmers and consumers seeking a blend of automotive style with utility features.

Media coverage

The media response to the 1959 Impala's launch proved mixed yet fascinating. Automotive journalists focused extensively on the car's distinctive styling elements, especially the revolutionary roof design. The Impala Sport Sedan garnered particular attention for its unique overhanging rear roof and expansive wrap-around rear window.

Television played a crucial role in the marketing campaign. The partnership with celebrated entertainers Dinah Shore and Pat Boone helped create widespread awareness and interest in the new models. Their endorsements reached millions of American households, effectively communicating the dramatic styling changes Chevrolet had implemented.

Public reception

Initially, the public's response to the 1959 Impala demonstrated a complex mix of reactions. Some Americans found the styling too radical, primarily expressing concerns about the rear-end design. However, the car's distinctive features soon became its greatest assets:

The most discussed design elements included:

• The cats-eye taillight configuration
• The dramatic horizontal fins
• The expansive glass greenhouse design
• The distinctive roof overhangs

As time passed, these controversial design choices evolved into celebrated characteristics. The 1959 Impala's appeal transcended generations, with recent data showing increasing interest among younger enthusiasts. Gen-Xers and younger collectors represented 54% of insurance quote requests for these models in 2022, marking a 10% increase since 2019.

The collector market has especially embraced modified versions of the 1959 Impala. Between 2018 and 2022, the proportion of modified Impalas sold at auction increased from 13% to 32%. This trend reflected in values, with modified examples appreciating 43% from USD 92,000 to USD 132,000.

The car's enduring appeal manifested in remarkable ways across different markets. In Japan, for instance, enthusiasts willingly paid premium prices, with one documented case of a 1959 Impala commanding USD 50,000 - a significant increase from its original price of just under USD 3,000.

The launch period also witnessed intense competition between Chevrolet and Ford for market dominance. Both manufacturers vied for the top sales position in the 1959 model year. Ultimately, Ford's more conservative styling approach proved successful in immediate sales, prompting Chevrolet to moderate its design direction for subsequent years.

Present-day collectors particularly value the 1959 Impala for its versatility. Whether preserved as a Sunday cruiser, modified into a drag-strip competitor, or customized as a lowrider, these vehicles maintain their popularity in the classic car scene. The condition #2 (Excellent) examples have appreciated by 27% since 2018, reaching an average value of USD 49,800.

Impact on American Car Culture

Racing through time, the 1959 Chevrolet Impala's influence on American car culture extends far beyond its initial launch year. From NASCAR tracks to Hollywood screens, this iconic vehicle carved its place in automotive history.

Celebrity owners

Among the notable early owners was NASCAR driver Richard "Dick" Foley, who acquired his Impala shortly after competing in the Sprint Cup Series. Though Foley's best racing result was a 19th-place finish at Daytona in 1958, his Impala remains a remarkable time capsule, complete with his autograph in the glove box.

Eugene Bothello and Patricia Merritt, both automotive enthusiasts from Bermuda, proudly showcase their 1959 Impala at prestigious events. Bothello, a distributor of motorcycles and scooters, alongside Merritt, a residential construction project manager, transformed their Impala into a masterpiece that commands attention at major automotive gatherings.

Popular media appearances

The 1959 Impala's striking design caught Hollywood's attention, notably appearing in the television movie "The UFO Incident." The car's dramatic presence perfectly complemented the film's mysterious atmosphere, even if some viewers found the movie less compelling upon rewatching years later.

Throughout the decades, this classic Chevrolet has maintained its screen presence. Its distinctive silhouette, primarily those unmistakable rear fins, continues to draw attention at gas stations and public venues. As one owner noted, "You go to a gas station and just want to fill it up, but people stop and look at it. Younger folks have never seen a car with wings, asking if it's customized".

Car show successes

At the 2024 Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, the BBT Fabrications-built 1959 Impala emerged as a standout contestant in the Street Machine of the Year category. The car's modern upgrades included:

• A Chevrolet Performance LT1 engine
• Roadster Shop REVO chassis
• Contemporary suspension components
• Seamlessly integrated engine mounts

One particularly remarkable restoration story involves a 1959 Impala discovered through a Craigslist ad in 2009. The car had remained outdoors, untouched for 46 years in eastern Washington. Ultimately, the restoration process yielded impressive results, featuring:

• A factory Roman Red over Snowcrest White paint scheme
• Custom interior crafted by Ciadella Interiors of Arizona
• Rebuilt V-8 engine with sleeve insertion in cylinder #7

The car's enduring appeal manifests in its versatility at shows. Some owners, like Borriello, regularly embark on long-distance journeys, including three trips to Canada. At nearly 211 inches in length, plus additional space for Continental kits, the Impala consistently draws crowds, fascinating onlookers with its remarkable proportions.

Present-day enthusiasts continue to celebrate this automotive icon through various interpretations, from pristine restorations to creative customs. The car's adaptability to different styles - whether as a Sunday cruiser, drag strip competitor, or custom showpiece - underscores its lasting impact on American car culture.

Production and Sales Success

The assembly lines at General Motors hummed with unprecedented activity as the 1959 Chevrolet Impala entered production. The manufacturing facilities faced the formidable task of meeting soaring demand while maintaining exacting quality standards for this groundbreaking vehicle.

Manufacturing challenges

The introduction of Magic-mirror acrylic lacquer paint presented a significant production hurdle. The paint department underwent extensive modifications to accommodate this innovative finish, ultimately offering 14 distinct exterior colors alongside 10 two-tone combinations. Inside the vehicle, craftsmen worked with 12 new interior color schemes, available in both vinyl and vinyl-cloth combinations.

The body assembly process demanded extraordinary precision, primarily because of the complex X-frame chassis design. Workers meticulously fitted body panels, ensuring proper alignment of the distinctive rear fins and wraparound windshield. The restoration industry currently acknowledges these challenges, as evidenced by the frequent need to replace rusted body panels and refurbish aged interiors.

Fortunately, the mechanical components proved more straightforward to manufacture. The robust engines demonstrated remarkable reliability, with parts readily available through the growing classic car restoration industry. The availability of replacement components, from small bolts to complete engines, has become a testament to the car's enduring popularity.

Sales figures

The sales performance of the 1959 Chevrolet Impala exceeded expectations across multiple metrics:

• Total Impala production reached 473,000 units for the 1959 model year
• The convertible emerged as one of the rarest body styles
• In 1959 alone, Chevrolet manufactured 72,000 cars

The battle for market supremacy between Ford and Chevrolet intensified throughout 1959. Ultimately, Chevrolet emerged victorious with 1,481,071 units against Ford's 1,394,684. The Impala's success manifested across various body styles, with median sale values varying significantly:

• Convertible: USD 96,000
• Sport Coupe: USD 41,250
• Sport Sedan: USD 44,000
• Standard Sedan: USD 28,600

Dealer feedback

Dealerships reported overwhelming interest in the V8 engine options, which secured the majority of sales for the model year. The Turbo-Fire 283 (4.7-liter) and the 348 (5.7-liter) proved particularly popular. The 348 engine's various configurations offered impressive power ratings:

• 250 horsepower with four-barrel carburetor
• Up to 335 horsepower with the Super Turbo-Thrust option

Present-day market analysis reveals fascinating trends in collector valuations. Current auction data indicates:

• Perfect condition examples command USD 105,000 to USD 368,500
• Excellent condition vehicles fetch USD 66,000 to USD 105,000
• Good condition models sell for USD 37,000 to USD 66,000

The average maintenance cost for modern Impalas stands at USD 568 annually. Nevertheless, vintage 1959 models typically require more substantial investment, with estimated maintenance costs reaching USD 6,524 over a decade. Presently, the median auction sale value hovers around USD 66,000, with documented sales ranging from USD 6,634 to USD 368,500.

Recent market data underscores the model's enduring appeal. The most recent sale occurred in January 2025 at Mecum's Kissimmee auction, where an exemplary 1959 Impala achieved USD 203,500. This figure aligns with the current year's average of USD 215,875, representing a remarkable 106.34% increase versus historical average sale values.

The aftermarket support system has expanded considerably, with numerous companies now manufacturing replacement parts. This development has proven crucial for maintaining these classics, as mechanical simplicity allows many components to be interchangeable across vehicles from this era. Original equipment manufacturers have even begun offering crate engines specifically designed to fit these vintage models.

Conclusion

The 1959 Chevrolet Impala stands as a testament to American automotive innovation, marking a pivotal moment when bold design met groundbreaking engineering. Though initially polarizing, its distinctive styling elements - from the dramatic rear fins to the teardrop taillights - transformed automotive design standards and created an enduring legacy.

The car's revolutionary X-frame chassis and advanced suspension system demonstrated Chevrolet's commitment to excellence, while strong sales figures validated their ambitious approach. Today, pristine examples command impressive prices at auctions, with values steadily climbing as new generations discover this classic's appeal.

Six decades later, the 1959 Impala continues to captivate automotive enthusiasts, whether preserved in original condition or reimagined through creative modifications. This remarkable vehicle not only shaped American car culture but also proved that sometimes, the boldest design choices become the most celebrated classics of all time.