1959

The 1959 Ford F-100 represented the mid-cycle point of the third generation, receiving a modest refresh that updated its appearance without altering the truck’s fundamental character. Ford’s approach for 1959 was evolutionary rather than revolutionary, concentrating on grille and trim changes that kept the F-100 looking current as it entered the final stretch of its generation.

The most noticeable exterior change was a redesigned grille. Ford gave the 1959 model a cleaner front-end treatment that moved away from the busier appearance of the 1958 quad-headlight design. The quad headlights remained, but the surrounding grille work was simplified and refined. Additional styling tweaks included revised side trim and updated emblems. The overall effect was a truck that looked slightly more mature and restrained than the 1958 model, reflecting a broader industry trend away from the chrome excess that had characterized the mid-1950s.

Under the hood, Ford streamlined the engine lineup. The 272 cubic-inch Y-block V8 was dropped, leaving three powertrain choices. The 223 cubic-inch Mileage Maker Six continued as the base engine at 139 horsepower, offering reliable and economical power for buyers whose work did not demand V8 performance. The 292 cubic-inch Y-block V8 remained the mid-range option at 212 horsepower, providing solid power for towing and hauling. At the top of the range, the 332 cubic-inch FE V8 returned with its 265 horsepower, giving the F-100 performance that rivaled many passenger cars of the era.

The chassis, cab, and bed designs carried over without significant changes. The 118-inch wheelbase, Styleside and Flareside bed options, and the choice between standard and Custom Cab configurations all continued. Transmission options remained the 3-speed manual as standard equipment, the 4-speed manual for heavy-duty use, and the Ford-O-Matic automatic for buyers who preferred it.

Inside the cab, the 1959 F-100 was largely unchanged from the prior year. The instrument panel, seat design, and interior trim maintained the same layout and materials. The Custom Cab option continued to offer a step up in comfort with better insulation, upgraded upholstery, and additional brightwork.

Production rebounded from the recession-affected 1958 numbers, reaching approximately 96,637 units for the model year. The recovery reflected both improved economic conditions and the F-100’s continued strength in the half-ton market. While the 1959 model year did not bring dramatic changes, the truck remained a thoroughly competitive product. Its combination of proven powertrain options, the popular Styleside bed, and a cab that offered more comfort and space than most competitors ensured that the F-100 held its position as one of America’s best-selling pickups heading into the final year of the third generation.