The 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville represents peak American automotive excess, with its dramatic tailfins and chrome-laden elegance.
You’ll find a potent 390 cubic-inch V8 engine producing 325 horsepower, paired with a smooth Hydra-Matic transmission. Inside, rich leather and handsome wood trim create a luxurious cabin spanning the car’s impressive 225-inch length.
At $5,250, it dominated the high-end market with 21,924 units produced. This iconic Cadillac’s story runs even deeper than its legendary fins.
Design and Styling Features
Three defining elements made the 1959 Cadillac Coupe De Ville an instant design classic. Its long, low silhouette commanded attention on the road, while razor-sharp tailfins pierced the air with bullet-tipped precision. Chrome accents wrapped the body in gleaming elegance, creating a look you couldn’t ignore.
With 325 horsepower output from its massive V8 engine, this luxury car delivered performance to match its striking appearance. You’ll find the car’s futuristic spirit in every detail, from its innovative dual bullet tail lamps to its space-age dashboard design. The exterior color options let you express your personality, whether you prefer subtle Ebony Black or eye-catching Wood Rose.
Inside, you’re greeted by rich upholstery and gleaming chrome trim that perfectly balance luxury with innovation. Power windows and seats, along with an automatic headlight dimmer, remind you that this wasn’t just about style – it was about advancing automotive technology.
Engine and Performance Specifications
Under the hood of the 1959 Cadillac Coupe De Ville sat a powerhouse 390 cubic-inch V8 engine, delivering an impressive 325 horsepower at 4,800 RPM.
You’ll find this cast-iron block paired with a Carter AFB 4-barrel carburetor, helping it achieve 430 ft-lbs of torque at 3,100 RPM. The engine’s bore and stroke measurements come in at 4.0 and 3.9 inches, respectively. This robust powertrain found its home in 21,924 Coupe models produced that year.
When you’re behind the wheel, you’ll experience a 0-60 mph time of 10.5 seconds, with the quarter-mile passing in 17.5 seconds.
The Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic transmission transfers power to the rear wheels, pushing the car to a top speed of 120 mph.
While it’s not particularly fuel-efficient at 10-12 mpg, this V8 provides the smooth, powerful performance you’d expect from a luxury Cadillac.
Dimensions and Construction Details
The 1959 Cadillac Coupe De Ville commands attention with its imposing 225-inch length and substantial 80.2-inch width.
You’ll find this luxury giant standing 56.2 inches tall, supported by a lengthy 130-inch wheelbase that delivers a smooth, stable ride.
The car’s construction features a robust, full-perimeter frame wrapped in steel body panels, providing exceptional structural integrity. The automatic 4-speed transmission delivers seamless power delivery for effortless cruising.
You’re looking at a vehicle that weighs nearly 4,850 pounds, built with precision using period-correct engineering.
The suspension features a combination of front coil springs and rear leaf springs, while drum brakes are used on all four wheels to provide stopping power.
Whether you choose the four-window or six-window sedan configuration, you’ll appreciate the chrome-accented doors and windows, complemented by gleaming door handles that exemplify Cadillac’s attention to detail.
Luxurious Interior Appointments
Inside this iconic luxury car, premium materials create an atmosphere of refined elegance that you’ll instantly appreciate. Rich leather upholstery cradles you in comfort, while gleaming chrome accents catch your eye from every angle.
You’ll find handsome wood trim throughout the cabin, adding warmth to the sophisticated design. The dashboard features a clever rheostat control that lets you adjust the instrument panel’s lighting to your preference. With a substantial 20.9-gallon tank, long-distance cruising becomes effortless and worry-free.
You’ve got your choice of five distinguished interior colors, from classic Black to striking Blue Green. Modern conveniences include an in-car radio and optional air conditioning to keep you comfortable on long drives.
The strategically placed interior lighting creates a welcoming ambiance, while premium carpeting completes the luxurious feel beneath your feet.
Production Numbers and Market Impact
During 1959’s remarkable production run, Cadillac manufactured an impressive 21,924 Coupe de Villes as part of its broader 53,390-unit DeVille series.
You’ll find this model’s success reflected in Cadillac’s total production of 121,778 vehicles that year, with the DeVille lineup proving to be a standout performer in the luxury car segment.
When you consider the price range of $5,250 to $5,500, you’ll understand how the Coupe de Ville positioned itself in the high-end market.
Its production efficiency and quality control measures guaranteed that each unit met Cadillac’s exacting standards. The model featured Series 6300 script nameplates as distinctive identifiers on its elegant bodywork.
The model’s strong sales performance helped maintain Cadillac’s market dominance, outpacing competitors like Lincoln and Chrysler while meeting the era’s demand for stylish, powerful luxury vehicles.
Legacy and Historical Significance
Standing as one of America’s most influential automobiles, the 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville has left an indelible mark on automotive history.
You’ll find its iconic tailfins and bullet-shaped taillights replicated in countless designs, while its engineering innovations paved the way for future luxury vehicles. Chuck Jordan’s innovative vision led to designs that were longer, lower, and wider. The car’s significance extends far beyond its mechanical prowess.
In films, TV shows, and advertisements, you’ll spot this cultural icon representing the optimism and prosperity of 1950s America.
It’s not just a car – it’s a symbol of an era when automotive design pushed boundaries.
Today, collectors prize these vehicles for their historical importance and striking appearance.
The Coupe de Ville’s influence lives on through its design legacy, technological contributions, and status as the quintessential symbol of mid-century American luxury.
Final Thoughts
You’ll appreciate how the 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville stands as one of America’s most iconic luxury cars. With its dramatic tailfins, chrome accents, and powerful V8 engine, it perfectly captured the optimism and excess of the late 1950s.
From its jewel-like trim to its pillarless hardtop design, this rolling masterpiece didn’t just transport passengers—it made a bold statement about success, style, and the American Dream.
