What is the difference between a 1958 and 1959 Chevy Apache?
The primary differences between a 1958 and a 1959 Chevy Apache are cosmetic updates to the front end and trim, while the mechanicals and overall package remained largely the same. In other words, if you’re evaluating two tractors with Apache badges from these years, you’ll notice styling cues rather than sweeping mechanical changes.
Chevrolet’s Task Force era (1955–1959) produced the Apache as a premium trim for its half-ton and up-class pickups. The 1958 model year introduced a refreshed look within that generation, and the 1959 model year followed with additional cosmetic tweaks and badges. The two years share most of the same chassis, engine options, and drivetrain layouts, so visual differences are what collectors and enthusiasts often notice first.
Context and what defines the Apache in these years
Understanding the Apache in 1958–1959 helps frame what you’re comparing. The Apache name appeared on higher-trim pickups, commonly the 3100/3600 series, and represented Chevrolet’s top-line styling and equipment for work trucks in that era. Both model years fall within Chevrolet’s mid-century Task Force styling, with the Apache badge signaling a more upscale appearance package than the base models.
Before you dive into the differences, note that the exact appearance can vary by cab and bed configuration (two-tone finishes, chrome belt moldings, and badge placement could differ between short and long fleets). The following lists summarize the commonly observed distinctions and the shared fundamentals you’ll find in both years.
Exterior styling differences
The most visible changes between 1958 and 1959 are cosmetic. The two years share the same basic pickup silhouette, but the front end and related trim received updates.
- Front-end and grille: 1959 models commonly show a revised front-end treatment and grille pattern compared to 1958, with subtle changes in chrome layout and badge placement.
- Headlights and lighting: treatment of headlamp bezels and surrounding trim can differ, with 1959 often featuring updated lighting accents consistent with the year’s styling refresh.
- Badges and trim: Apache branding and beltline/chrome trim arrangements were refreshed in 1959, leading to a more integrated look on some cars and trucks.
- Body detailing: minor tweaks to side trim, wheel opening molding, and bed/tailgate scripts may appear between the two years depending on the exact body style.
In short, if you’re trying to tell them apart at a glance, focus on the grille/front-end treatment and the badge/trim arrangement. The rest of the sheet metal and overall cab/bed shapes are largely similar.
Interior and features differences
Interior updates between 1958 and 1959 are less pronounced than the exterior changes, but there are small differences in trim and available options that collectors notice.
- Instrument panel and gauges: both years use era-typical instrumentation, but 1959 can show minor refinements in trim and color accents on higher Apache trims.
- Seating and trim options: Apache-equipped trucks offered more upscale interior trim and upholstery choices; some 1959 vehicles reflect updated interior materials or colorways aligned with the new exterior styling.
- Convenience features: optional equipment in the late-1950s era varied by region and exact model; general availability of premium features was aligned with the Apache trim level across both years.
Interior differences are subtle and mostly pertain to trim and color coordination rather than a complete redesign. If you’re matching a restoration to a specific year, verify the seat fabric, dash trim, and emblem styling to identify the year more precisely.
Mechanical and drivetrain notes
The engines and transmissions powering the 1958 and 1959 Apache trucks stayed broadly consistent, with no drastic powertrain redesign between these two years.
- Engine options: inline-six and small-block V8 options were commonly available, with performance and displacement choices similar across both years.
- Transmissions: manual transmissions (three- and four-speed) were standard options, with automatics available depending on the configuration and drivetrain.
- Overall mechanical package: chassis, suspension, and drive configurations followed Chevrolet’s Task Force layout for those years, so most mechanical parts are interchangeable across the two model years in many setups.
So, for mechanical comparisons, expect parity in powertrain and chassis between 1958 and 1959 Apache pickups, with the primary differences residing in styling and trim rather than fundamental engineering changes.
Identification and how to tell them apart
Identifying a 1958 versus a 1959 Apache can hinge on badge wording, grille details, and trim alignment. Here are practical cues to help distinguish the years when you’re inspecting a truck.
- Front-end cues: examine the grille pattern and chrome arrangement for the year-specific refresh typical of 1959, compared with the 1958 look.
- Badges and nameplates: check the door badges, tailgate script, and Apache insignia for year-typical styling updates.
- Trim alignment: observe the beltline molding, chrome trim, and emblems along the sides for year-specific placements.
- VIN and data tags: consult the vehicle’s VIN tag or build sheet for year confirmation, paying attention to the body/series codes Chevrolet used in those years.
Because trim combinations and optional equipment varied by model and market, corroborate the year with multiple identifying features rather than relying on a single cue.
Summary
In practice, a 1958 Apache and a 1959 Apache are closely related, sharing the same fundamental mechanical package and most of the Apache’s premium trim. The deciding differences are primarily cosmetic: a refreshed front-end and trim details in 1959, with subtle interior trim shifts and badge accents. For collectors and restorers, the year often comes down to matching front-end styling cues, badge placements, and the exact trim options offered on that chassis. Both years represent Chevrolet’s mid-century commitment to combining rugged utility with a touch of premium styling.
How much is a 1958 Chevy worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $26,920 for a 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air at auction over the last three years was $136,500.
How much is a 1959 Chevy Apache worth?
The value of a 1959 Chevrolet Apache varies significantly, with low-end prices around $19,000, average prices near $54,000, and high-end prices exceeding $114,000. The price depends heavily on the truck's condition, originality, modifications, and specific model.
Factors that influence value
- Condition: A "frame-off" restoration will command a much higher price than a project truck in rough condition.
- Originality: Trucks that retain original parts, especially the engine and transmission, are often more valuable to collectors.
- Modifications: While some modern upgrades like A/C, power steering, or disc brakes can be appealing, they may decrease the value for buyers who want a strictly original truck.
- Specific Model and Drivetrain: The type of engine (e.g., 6-cylinder vs. V8) and body style (e.g., Fleetside vs. Stepside) can affect the price. For example, a 235.5cid 6-cylinder engine in a Stepside model could be valued differently than a modified 350 V8 in a Fleetside.
Examples of current prices
- Low-end: Prices starting around $18,995 for trucks in project or lower-condition states.
- Mid-range: Examples include trucks with some modifications, such as a V8 engine and automatic transmission, listed in the $30,000-$45,000 range.
- High-end: Pristine, fully restored, or high-end custom trucks are valued much higher, with some examples reaching over $114,000.
What was the difference between the 1958 and 1959 Chevy truck?
1959 was the last model year for the series, showing minimal changes from 1958. Most apparent was a larger and more ornate hood emblem and redesigned badging on the fenders. This was the last year that the NAPCO (Northwestern Auto Parts Company) "Powr-Pak" four-wheel drive conversion could be factory ordered.
What engine came in a 1959 Chevy Apache?
Engine: 283 ci/230 hp V8. Transmission: 4-Speed Hydramatic. Body Style: 2DR Panel Truck.
