Image of 1958 Plymouth Suburban, sourced from www.curbsideclassic.com , Image Link.

1958 Plymouth Suburban: A Station Wagon Ahead of Its Time

The 1958 Plymouth Suburban isn't just a car; it's a testament to the era of tailfins and optimism, a symbol of American suburban life in the late 1950s. Born from the assembly lines of the Plymouth division of Chrysler, this station wagon was designed to cater to the burgeoning family market, offering space, style, and a hint of luxury. Its release coincided with a period when America was riding the crest of post-war prosperity, and automobiles were not just modes of transportation but statements of personal style and family values.

One unique fact that sets the 1958 Plymouth Suburban apart is its cameo in cinematic history, having been featured in films that evoke nostalgia for the bygone American era. This vehicle is more than just a means to an end; it's a piece of Americana that has carried families on countless adventures.

Design and Innovation

The 1958 Plymouth Suburban's exterior styling was bold and distinctive, characterized by its long body, pronounced tailfins, and chrome accents that caught the sunlight as it cruised down the boulevard. The front grille presented a confident face to the world, while the sweeping lines along its sides led to an elegantly tapered rear. Inside, passengers were greeted with a spacious interior where functionality met comfort. The quality of materials—from plush seats to durable floor coverings—reflected an era where craftsmanship was paramount.

Technologically, this wagon was equipped with features that were advanced for its time, such as push-button transmissions and power steering options. Color options ranged from classic whites and blacks to more vibrant hues like "Buckskin Beige" and "Rio Red," with two-tone combinations being particularly popular among buyers. The most iconic body style was arguably the two-door variant, which offered both practicality and a sportier look.

Historical Significance

The 1958 Plymouth Suburban played a pivotal role in defining what a family car could be—versatile yet stylish. It set itself apart from contemporaries with its blend of utility and design flair. The wagon's influence can be seen in subsequent generations of family vehicles that sought to provide similar combinations of space and style.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Suburban came with several engine options, including the robust V8 that allowed it to reach commendable top speeds for a family wagon. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was respectable, ensuring that this wagon could keep up with the pace of modern life. On various driving conditions, from smooth highways to rugged country roads, the Suburban handled with poise. Drivers often remarked on the reassuring purr of the engine—a sound that promised reliability and power.

Ownership Experience

The 1958 Plymouth Suburban found its place as a daily driver for many American families but also shone as a show car due to its distinctive design elements. Maintenance was straightforward enough for the average owner, thanks in part to Chrysler's widespread dealership network and parts availability at the time.

Fun Facts

A lesser-known fact about this model is that it occasionally served as an impromptu race car at local drag strips, where owners would showcase its surprising agility. While not immune to criticisms—some found fault with its fuel economy—the Suburban nonetheless carved out its niche in automotive history.

Collector's Information

The current value range for collectors varies widely depending on condition and originality but can fetch anywhere from $10,000 for models in need of restoration to upwards of $50,000 for pristine examples. With production numbers not precisely known but estimated in the tens of thousands across all station wagon variants during that year, rarity can be considered moderate. Over time, appreciation for this model has grown among collectors who value its unique place in automotive history.

Conclusion

The 1958 Plymouth Suburban stands as an emblematic figure in American automotive culture—a family-friendly wagon with style and substance. It bridged utility with desirability in ways few other vehicles have managed since. For those lucky enough to own one today, it represents not just a nostalgic journey back in time but also an investment into an enduring piece of Americana.

1958 Plymouth Suburban Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D-BN 20Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D. X 1-5/8" high, with 9/16" I.D. Each

1958 Plymouth Suburban Headlight Ring Seal. 8-3/8" O.D., 7-3/4" I.D. Pair-HR 14Headlight Ring Seal. 8-3/8" O.D., 7-3/4" I.D. Pair

1958 Plymouth Suburban Rear Roll-Up Window Seals-VS 7-GRear Roll-Up Window Seals. For leading edge of rear quarter window. Made with molded ends. 18-1/2" long. Pair R&L

1958 Plymouth Suburban Rigid division-bar run channel-WC 31-96Rigid division-bar run channel. Made with very soft felt lining. Used on front and rear door side windows. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1958 Plymouth Suburban Rigid division-bar channel. Unbeaded. 96 in. long. Each-WC 41-96Rigid division-bar channel. Unbeaded. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1958 Plymouth Suburban Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 4-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.