59 info

[David Bodily]

I bought a basket case 59 last year. It came with a powerglide and 2X4's. I am new to Corvette ownership and was wondering what the original configuration of the car was. 2X4's and powerglide does not seem right. The serial number is J59S103616. Any help will be appreciated.

[kenneth bingener NCRS#38563]

Re: 59 info

Hi Dave,

I'm new too. I just bought a very original 58 and it has the 2x4 with a powerglide. The 2x4 and the powerglide were combinable options. The more powerful option engines only came w/ manual trannys due to the powerglide not handling the extra HP. Ken

[Dave S.]

Re: 59 info

Powerglide was available with most engine options including fuel injection.

[John M.]

Re: 59 info

I belive that 1960 was the first year that you could not get a fuel injection with a powerglide.

Regards, John McGraw

[William C.]

Re: 59 info

Remember that there were 2 different 2x4 combinations available. The 245 hp engine uses the same hydraulic lifter cam as the 230 hp single 4bbl engine and was used with the PG. Look at the tach redline, the 245 hp engine redlined at about 5400 rpm and the 270hp mechanical lifter version at about 6200.