Early Years (1951-1953)
Plymouth introduced the Belvedere name in 1951 as a two-door pillarless hardtop variant of the Cranbrook, marking Plymouth’s foray into a new body design. Originally responding to the Chevrolet Bel Air and Ford Victoria, the Belvedere became a standalone nameplate in 1954.
The Belvedere gained prominence as the quintessential midsize car in the mid and late 1960s. It served as the platform for iconic models like the Satellite, GTX, and Road Runner. Beyond this, the Belvedere was Plymouth’s primary contender in the full-size market from 1954 to 1961, capturing a significant market share.
Stylish Transformations (1955-1958)
Following the “Forward Look” design language by Virgil Exner in 1955, the Belvedere underwent a bold redesign in 1957, propelling Plymouth’s full-size line to massive success. The Belvedere alone achieved sales exceeding 200,000 units during this era. The introduction of the Fury in 1959 as a subseries added to Plymouth’s allure, featuring exclusive design elements and a limited beige color palette.
A 1958 Belvedere, restored in the 1990s, stands out with carefully applied upgrades reminiscent of the Fury model. While not a Fury, it boasts 1957 Fury inserts, rear wheel skirts, and distinctive pinstripe designs on the hood and trunk lid. Inside, the cabin reflects a Fury influence with fabric inserts and a subtle red motif against a black and chrome backdrop.
Under the hood of this unique 1958 Belvedere lies a surprise – a 361-cubic-inch (5.9-liter) big-block V8. Uncommon for Plymouths of the time, this Mopar unit, an enlarged version of the 350, was not part of the original 1958 engine lineup. Despite resembling the 350, it delivered a notable power increase, making this Belvedere a distinctive and tasteful build.
# FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
## FAQ 1: What distinguished the early Belvedere models?
The Belvedere originated in 1951 as a two-door pillarless hardtop variant of the Cranbrook, becoming an independent nameplate in 1954.
## FAQ 2: What characterized the Belvedere’s significance in the mid to late 1960s?
The Belvedere served as the foundational model for iconic vehicles such as the Satellite, GTX, and Road Runner, dominating the midsize car market.
## FAQ 3: How did design play a role in the success of the Belvedere in the late 1950s?
Virgil Exner’s “Forward Look” design language, introduced in 1955, and a bold 1957 redesign contributed to the Belvedere’s success, with sales surpassing 200,000 units.
## FAQ 4: What sets the 1958 Belvedere apart from its counterparts?
The 1958 Belvedere, restored in the 1990s, showcases Fury-inspired upgrades, including 1957 Fury inserts, rear wheel skirts, and unique pinstripe designs.
## FAQ 5: What makes the engine of the 1958 Belvedere noteworthy?
The 1958 Belvedere surprises with a 361-cubic-inch (5.9-liter) big-block V8, not part of the original lineup. This Mopar unit, a larger version of the 350, offers a significant power increase, making it a distinctive build.
