1958 Plymouth Belvedere Convertible

Basic information and history

The Plymouth Belvedere was produced between 1954 and 1970. The car is built in seven generations and this is generation three. The third-generation Belvedere is only built for two years and, despite its short production run, is a success for Plymouth. The advertising slogan used by Chrysler/Plymouth was "Suddenly its 1960!", when promoting the car. The convertibles only came with the V8, unlike the sedan, which could be had with a small straight six. The model is known, among other things, from popular culture, where a red/white 2-door hardtop gets to star in the film Christine from 1983.

This 1958 Belvedere Cabriolet has been in the owner's family for 21 years and has been well cared for. The car has been owned by both the current owner and his wife during the 21 years of ownership. This wagon comes with, among other things, the "Golden Commando" engine option, a 5.7-liter V8 with twin four-port carburettors. According to the data, power should be over 300hp. The gears are handled by a 3-speed automatic transmission.

The car was loaned to Chrysler on request when the company was going to exhibit cars from 1958 at the "Elmiamässan" and has also been featured in Wheels magazine. A good proof of how good condition the car is perceived to be in!

Equipment and options

Belvedere is the middle trim level among the models in terms of equipment and comes with good standard equipment. The 3-speed button automatic is an option and the car has both brake and power steering.

Golden Commando V8
Automatic gearbox with buttons
Electric lifts
The electric convertible
Swing seats
Connie-kit

Condition

The body is described by the current owner as being in good condition. In 2003, the car was sheet metal clean and got a new paint job. This was carried out by an authorized workshop in Västerås. The current owner advises that he cannot find any rust on the car, but that there may possibly be something due to its age. It is reported that there are some small paint chips that are 2-3mm in size. Chrome, moldings and emblems come without notes. The original rims are in fine condition. Glass parts are described as being in good condition.

Interior was renovated at the same time as the body renovation, 2002. Current owner describes the condition as normal. It looks good but if you look closely you can probably find something small. The red/black leather looks nice though. Dashboard and panel are in good condition, but it is reported that there is some slight paint rubbing on one edge. There is also a little frost in the glass in some places on the instrument panel. Buttons and controls look nice considering the years, but normal wear is present. A more modern stereo is fitted. The current owner says that it would be necessary to put panels in the trunk so that it would also be as nice as the other parts of the car. There is also a small piece missing from one of the controls for the front seat, but nothing you really think about. The current owner also thinks that the locking of the connie-kit can be improved, but the locking function works as intended.

Mechanically, the condition is described as good. Engine and gearbox were completely rebuilt in 2010. Current owner advises that carburettor would need an overhaul. Sometimes it is a bit sluggish. However, the engine runs fine while driving and the gearbox shifts smoothly and nicely. The automatic transmission sometimes leaks and is therefore filled with a few decilitres of oil during the course of the year. The drums were re-turned in 2010 and are described with brakes being in good condition.

Service history

The car has been well cared for during 21 years of ownership by the current owner. Service and maintenance have been carried out on an ongoing basis by the owner himself, and the condition clearly shows that the car is well looked after and appreciated. The car is exempt from inspection/MOT.

Summary

A nice period-typical 50's convertible in enjoyable condition! The car has been exhibited at fairs and appreciated for its fine condition. The current owner is selling the car with mixed feelings and because it has mostly been in the garage in recent years. Take the chance to acquire a luxury convertible from the fantastic 50s!