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1959 Dodge Coronet Red Ram Is a Surprising Barn Find With Good News Under the Hood

1959 Dodge Coronet 20 photos
Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution/eBay seller slosc
1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet1959 Dodge Coronet
The first thing I can think of when speaking about the 1959 Coronet is the debut of the first Dodge Challenger. The so-called Dodge Silver Challenger was a surprising model based on the Coronet, flexing an intriguing package that included a special silver paint, electric windshield wipers, full wheel covers, and white wall tires.
The interior was upgraded with silver metallic vinyl and black fabric upholstery, with dual armrests and sun visors coming as standard.

The Silver Challenger was more expensive than a Coronet, and customers could order the car for $2,297 when getting the six-cylinder engine or $2,408 if they wanted the Red Ram magic.

The 1959 Coronet that landed on eBay courtesy of seller slosc isn't a Silver Challenger but a barn find seeking a second chance after years in storage. We don't get too many specifics on the time spent inside, but the car looks solid, with the rust likely to be found in the usual places. The owner says the damage is only on the surface, except for the trunk, where it's more serious and could require more extensive work.

The Coronet still has all the trim but will need some body repairs, as it exhibits front-end damage to the hood. It's unclear what happened, but you must inspect every sheet of metal thoroughly, especially if you want to restore this car to factory specifications.

Speaking of a restoration, you wouldn't be able to bring the car back to its original shape without the factory engine. Fortunately, the car still has the original mill under the hood, and the owner says it turns over by hand.

It's a Red Ram – a 325 V8 available as the base V8 in the lineup. The more powerful choice in 1959 was the 354, which debuted in 1957 when Chrysler launched the new generation. The 354 delivered massive power, with the unit rated at 340 horsepower on the Coronet.

It's unclear if this Coronet is still complete and original, but you should see it in person before committing to a purchase, as it could become a very intriguing restoration candidate with the right overhaul. Its price is almost ridiculous for a car this old, and I'm surprised nobody entered the fight to take it home so far.

The auction begins at $1,500, and no reserve is in place, meaning that a single offer guarantees the car finds a new shelter. With the right restoration, this car can be worth between $30K and $40K, so it's probably a matter of time until someone gives it a second chance. Meanwhile, you can see this Coronet in Los Osos, California, and you'll need a trailer to take it home, considering the engine problems.
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About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
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