396-Powered 1959 Chevrolet Corvette Restomod 5-Speed

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

By 1959, Chevrolet’s iconic Corvette had matured into a world-class sports car. Under the direction of new design chief Bill Mitchell, the styling was streamlined — eliminating the previous year’s faux hood louvers and large chrome trunk spears.

What remained was pure Corvette: its performance-tuned suspension wore new radius rods to control the rear axle under acceleration and braking. A good thing, as five 283-cubic-inch V8s were offered, producing up to 290 horsepower. Paired with synchronized three- or four-speed manuals or a Powerglide automatic, these high-revving V8s got the 3,000-pound Corvette moving in a hurry.

Factor in the numerous exterior and interior colors, comfortable bucket seats, and a full suite of gauges behind a competition-style steering wheel, and the 1959 Corvette was a real contender. As Chevrolet proudly proclaimed, “In every way, the Corvette is an authentic sports car.”

This clean Corvette retains its classic 1959 styling, but adds modern touches. It’s powered by a 396 cubic-inch crate engine, which sends tidal waves of torque through a five-speed to a rebuilt rear end. Four-wheel discs mounted under huge chrome wheels yank it down from felonious speeds. And occupants ride in comfort in a modernized, luxurious interior.

Highlights 

• ’59 Vette with classic looks and modern components 

• 396 cu-in BluePrint V8 crate engine dyno tested at 499 hp 

• Five-speed Tremec manual transmission 

• Finished in red with black interior 

• Black convertible top 

• Dakota Digital aftermarket gauges 

Features 

• 17-inch US Mags wheels wearing 215/50R17 Road Control tires  

• Four-wheel Wilwood disc brakes 

• New Eaton limited-slip differential and new axles 

• Headers and dual exhaust system 

• MSD ignition system 

• Serpentine drive system 

• Aftermarket radiator and dual electric fans 

• Digital speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, coolant temp, voltage, and fuel level gauges 

• Professionally installed RetroSound stereo system with SiriusXM and Bluetooth 

• (2) internally amplified 8-inch subs with sound deadening behind seats 

• Aftermarket steering wheel 

• Trunk-mounted Optima battery with case, new cables, and Ron Francis Wiring relocation kit 

Known Imperfections 

• Older paint has some minor spider cracks and chips 

• Crack in fiberglass under front bumper 

Included 

• Keys 

Ownership History

The Idaho seller of this 1959 Corvette has owned it since January 2022. The consignor states, “It was purchased from a gentleman who had owned it since the early 1980s. The BluePrint engine installed in 2023 has 6k miles, and is currently on their worldwide warranty until May of 2026.” 

This Corvette is offered with a clean Idaho title in the seller's name.