1959 CHEVY/GMC PICKUP TRUCKS

W hile many folks have an old sports car or Detroit hot rod under a tarp in their garage, not many have a classic piece of America like this. Introduced in 1947, Chevrolet’s “Advanced Design” series of trucks ushered in a new era of pickup truck design. Some of the biggest improvements were in the cab: a significant size increase over the last generation Chevy trucks allowed for more interior space, including enough room on the bench seat to accommodate three adults. A larger front windshield and increase rear and side glass sizes offered improved visibility, while welded cab construction – as opposed to the partially bolted construction of earlier trucks – helped chassis rigidity and body integrity.

The first trucks in the series were powered by an OHV 6 cylinder that generated 90 horsepower and a bit more than 170 ft-lb. of torque, while the available bed sizes included half-, ¾- and 1-ton models. Numerous exterior and interior styling tweaks were made over the life of the vehicle, including several modest engine upgrades and a front grille redesign in the early 1950’s.

HOW TO GET ONE:

Unlike many classic cars, most 1940-1960 era trucks can be obtained in serviceable shape (often partly or fully restored) for reasonable prices. Many 1950’s models can be purchased restored from between $10,000 and $30,000, depending on the vehicle.

-Jeff James