From Family Sedan to Collector’s Dream — The Rise of the ’58 Biscayne

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The 1958 Chevrolet Biscayne served as Chevrolet’s entry-level full-size sedan, offering multiple powertrain options from a 145-horsepower inline-six to V8s producing up to 315 horsepower.

Built on a 117.5-inch wheelbase with a robust X-member frame, the Biscayne achieved 0-60 mph in 10-12 seconds depending on configuration.

Current market values range from $4,875 to $44,495 based on condition, with recent sales averaging $12,000. Its combination of vintage styling, mechanical simplicity, and affordability continues attracting budget-conscious collectors to this classic American sedan.

Engine Performance and Powertrain Options

The Chevrolet Biscayne offered buyers a thorough range of powertrains spanning from economical six-cylinder engines to robust V8 configurations.

The base 235.5 cubic inch Blue Flame inline-six produced 145 horsepower at 4200 RPM with 215 lb-ft of torque. V8 options included the 283 cubic inch Turbo Fire generating 185 horsepower standard, 230 horsepower with a four-barrel carburetor, or 250 horsepower with fuel injection.

The larger 348 cubic inch Turbo-Thrust V8 delivered between 250 and 315 horsepower. All engines are paired with either a three-speed manual transmission or an optional two-speed Powerglide automatic through a rear-wheel drive configuration. The vehicle’s compression ratios ranged from 8.0:1 to 9.5:1, depending on the engine configuration selected.

Driving Dynamics and Specifications

Built upon a robust X-member “Safety Girder” frame, the Biscayne’s chassis architecture established a foundation emphasizing structural rigidity and occupant protection.

The 117.5-inch wheelbase balanced ride quality with handling dynamics, while the rear-wheel drive configuration delivered power through a live axle. Weighing 3,400-3,600 pounds with front-heavy distribution, the sedan achieved 0-60 mph in 10-12 seconds and quarter-mile times of 17-19 seconds.

Maximum speed reached 105-115 mph. Drum brakes on all corners provided era-appropriate stopping power.

Transmission choices included a three-speed manual or an optional two-speed Powerglide automatic, each offering distinct driving characteristics. The 235 Blue-Flame 6 engine produced 145 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque, while V8 variants delivered up to 185 horsepower for enhanced performance.

Value and Market Position

Understanding mechanical capabilities provides context for examining how Biscaynes perform in today’s collector vehicle marketplace.

Current valuations range from $4,875 for fair examples to $44,495 for excellent condition vehicles. Auction data from 34 transactions shows sales from $4,250 to $47,000, with a median value of $17,600.

Condition dramatically impacts pricing, creating fourfold differences between fair and excellent examples.

As Chevrolet’s entry-level offering positioned below Bel Air, Biscaynes attract budget-conscious collectors. The model’s vintage styling contributes to its enduring appeal among classic car enthusiasts.

Recent 2024 sales averaging $12,000 indicate stable market activity for this affordable classic.

References

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