Automotive Landscape of 1959
A look at models launched in 1959
- Mar 9: Austin Mini Launch – The BMC Mini, designed by Alec Issigonis, debuts in the UK. Featuring a revolutionary transverse engine and front-wheel-drive layout, it maximizes interior space and revolutionizes small car packaging.
- Apr 9: Volvo Patents Three-Point Seat Belt – Volvo safety engineer Nils Bohlin introduces the modern three-point seat belt and releases the patent freely to the world, saving hundreds of thousands of lives globally.
- Oct 2: Chevrolet Corvair Introduced – Chevrolet launches the Corvair, featuring an innovative air-cooled rear-mounted flat-six engine and swing-axle independent suspension, challenging traditional American car design.
- Nov 1: Chrysler 300E and Massive Fins – High-performance luxury cruisers reach peak tailfin extravagance in Detroit, with massive styling flourishes dominating the American automotive landscape.
US
Mini Cooper
Classic
POWER
55 HP
RARITY
200,000 Sold
US
Cadillac Series 62
Coupe
POWER
345 HP
RARITY
140,000 Sold
US
Checker Marathon
A10 Sedan/Taxi
POWER
145 HP
RARITY
10,000 Sold
US
Cadillac Eldorado
Biarritz Convertible
POWER
345 HP
RARITY
1,320 Sold
EUROPE
BMC Mini
Morris Mini-Minor
POWER
34 HP
RARITY
5,300,000 Sold
EUROPE
Jaguar Mark 2
3.8 Saloon
POWER
220 HP
RARITY
91,210 Sold
ASIA
Datsun Bluebird
310 Series
POWER
48 HP
RARITY
210,000 Sold
ASIA
Prince Gloria
BLSIP-1
POWER
80 HP
RARITY
2,500 Sold