1959 Plymouth Belvedere Convertible – 318 V8 – Forward Look Classic

Big Fins. Push-Button Drive. Pure 1950s Americana.

Few automobiles capture the optimism and extravagance of the late 1950s quite like a Forward Look Plymouth. This 1959 Belvedere Convertible brings together Virgil Exner’s dramatic tailfins, quad headlights, sweeping chrome trim, and open-air cruising in one of Plymouth’s more uncommon body styles, with just 5,063 Belvedere Convertibles produced for the model year.

Finished in brilliant red with a red-and-white interior and contrasting tan power convertible top, this Belvedere has the kind of presence that made late-1950s Detroit unforgettable. Under the hood is a 318ci V8 paired with Chrysler’s 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic and its unmistakable push-button controls. Power steering makes this big Plymouth comfortable to cruise, while wide whitewall tires and period-style wheel covers complete the look.

Engine & Transmission

318ci Poly V8
Rated at 230 horsepower
3-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission
Chrysler push-button transmission controls
Power steering
Runs and drives very well
New battery installed

Exterior

Brilliant red exterior finish
Signature 1959 Plymouth Forward Look styling
Dramatic tailfins and sculpted rear deck
Quad headlights
Extensive brightwork and chrome trim
Tan power-operated convertible top
New fender skirts
New car cover included

Interior

Red-and-white bench-seat interior
Original-style dashboard and instrumentation
Period-correct Plymouth steering wheel
Push-button transmission controls integrated into the dash
Odometer currently shows approximately 12,701 miles — TMU
Original AM radio is included and needs to be installed
No power windows

Wheels & Tires

New tires
Wide whitewall design complements the car’s late-1950s presentation
Period-style Plymouth wheel covers
No power brakes

Documentation & History

Reportedly assembled at Chrysler’s Evansville, Indiana plant
Originally sold in the Oakland, California area according to prior ownership history
Receipts and documentation for work performed are included
February 2024 appraisal valued the Plymouth at $90,000
1959 marked Plymouth’s 30th anniversary
Only 5,063 Belvedere Convertibles were produced for the 1959 model year

Why This Belvedere Matters

The 1959 Belvedere represents an era when American manufacturers weren’t afraid to make automobiles dramatic. The fins, chrome, colors and push-button transmission are unmistakably products of their time—and that is precisely their appeal today. With limited convertible production, V8 power and one of Virgil Exner’s most recognizable Forward Look designs, this Plymouth offers something increasingly difficult to duplicate: an authentic piece of 1950s American automotive theater that can still be driven and enjoyed.

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