1959 Buick Electra Hardtop Coupe

Like all of GM’s 59 models, Buick’s styling was in large part a reaction to the dramatic Chrysler Corporation cars that debuted in 1957. Stodgy Buick reinvented its image by dropping its existing model names. Gone, too, were the signature portholes. LeSabre, Invicta, and Electra now carried the company banner.

The bold new style with delta wing canted rear fins also reflected in the front-end shape proved more than Buick’s conservative buyers could handle, but its style caused editors to label Buick as “best looking overall” of all the 1959 car models.