How much does a 59 Chevy weigh?
The weight of a 1959 Chevrolet varies by model and trim, but most full-size Chevrolets from that year weighed roughly 3,400 to 4,000 pounds (1,540 to 1,815 kg).
In this article, we break down the typical curb weights by popular body styles—from Bel Air and Biscayne to Impala, Nomad, and even the Corvette—highlighting how configuration, engines, and options affected total mass as these classic cars age on the road or in restoration shops.
Typical weights by model and body style
Below are approximate curb weights for common 1959 Chevrolet body styles. Weights vary with engine types (straight-six, small-block, big-block), transmissions, and added options, so treat these as guide ranges rather than precise figures.
- Bel Air / 2-door hardtop: roughly 3,600–3,800 lb (1,630–1,724 kg)
- Bel Air / 4-door sedan: roughly 3,700–3,900 lb (1,676–1,769 kg)
- Impala (2-door hardtop or convertible): roughly 3,800–4,000 lb (1,724–1,814 kg)
- Biscayne (base 4-door sedan): roughly 3,900–4,100 lb (1,770–1,860 kg)
- Nomad (wagon): roughly 3,900–4,300 lb (1,769–1,950 kg)
- Corvette (1959): roughly 2,800–3,000 lb (1,270–1,360 kg)
These ranges reflect factory curb weights, without cargo or passengers, and account for option packages such as air conditioning, power steering, power brakes, and larger engines that could push the scale upward. Factory documentation and VIN/build sheet data for specific vehicles provide the exact weight for a given car.
Why weight matters for restoration and performance
Weight affects handling, braking, fuel consumption, and overall driving feel. For a 1959 Chevy, changes in engine choice, drivetrain, and optional equipment can shift curb weight by hundreds of pounds. When restoring or evaluating a car for racing or daily driving, consult the original build sheet and weigh the vehicle with a certified scale to get an accurate figure.
In practice, collectors often encounter weights near the upper end of these ranges for fully equipped Impalas or Nomads, while lighter-bodied configurations like early Corvettes sit notably lighter. If you're buying a project, knowing a target weight helps with performance expectations and compatibility with replacement parts.
Summary
Weight for a 1959 Chevy varies by model and configuration, typically between about 2,800 and 4,300 pounds across the lineup. Bel Airs and Bel Air/Impala family cars tend toward the middle-to-upper portion, while the Corvette sits on the lighter side. For restoration, rely on the car’s build sheet or factory documents for an exact figure and plan around how options influence mass.
