Enthusiasts with a family sometimes view the classic world as a “closed shop.” Their options appear limited, and many in that position place the entire concept in the too-hard basket. However, this 1959 Chevrolet Kingswood Wagon rides to their rescue. It requires a total restoration, but it shouldn’t be ignored. Its engine bay houses its original V8, and third-row seating accommodates nine in comfort. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting the Kingswood listed here on eBay in Tannersville, Pennsylvania. The seller set their BIN at $19,500 with the option to make an offer.

Introduced in 1959, the Kingswood spent a mere two years on showroom floors before Chevrolet retired the badge for almost a decade. This first-year example features the typical Impala styling touches of this model year, including horizontal rear fins and the “cat’s eye” taillights. Its history is somewhat unclear, but the indications are that it has been in storage for many years. Its Grecian Gray and Snowcrest White paint combination hasn’t aged well, making a cosmetic restoration seem like a no-brainer. Returning this classic to its former glory may not be as challenging as it first appears, because its rust issues aren’t severe. The seller states that there are areas in the floors requiring attention and that there are also areas on the lower extremities with steel penetration. However, it sounds like wholesale panel replacement may not be necessary if the buyer is willing to craft a few patches. Most of the trim is present and salvageable, and the glass is clear. The Kingswood rolls on its original steel wheels, complete with wide whitewalls and sparkling new wheel trims.

Apart from an under-dash 8-track player, it appears that this Kingswood’s interior is unmolested and original. The buyer could throw a blanket over the front seat to hide the deteriorating seatcover, because the back seat and third-row are in good condition. There are no headliner issues, but the door trims and carpet are well beyond their best. The good news is that replacements are available for virtually any item that doesn’t meet the new owner’s standards. The first port of call would be a deep clean, because the interior has accumulated decades of dust. Once the buyer completes that task, they can write their shopping list and break out their wallet!

There’s plenty of positive news with this Kingswood if you are a potential buyer seeking a turnkey classic. The Wagon retains its numbers-matching 283ci V8 and two-speed Powerglide transmission. The factory quoted a power output of 185hp for the V8, providing competent performance from what is a relatively heavy vehicle. The seller invested a considerable sum into this classic’s revival, replacing the radiator, most of the braking system, the tires, and completing a thorough service. They include an embedded video of the Wagon in action, and aside from a small exhaust leak, there are no apparent issues. The buyer could enjoy this classic in its current form for years, or follow the seller’s suggestion to make the engine bay the ideal location for a more potent V8 as part of a custom build.

One thing that I am sure of is that this 1959 Chevrolet Kingswood Wagon will divide reader opinions. Some will believe that addressing its rust to prevent deterioration is the appropriate course, but preserving it as a genuine survivor is the most suitable approach. Others will think that it deserves a faithful restoration, recapturing its former good looks. There will be a third school of thought, with those enthusiasts viewing this Kingswood as an ideal candidate for a custom build with a more potent V8 under the hood. Despite my preference for originality, I would respect whichever path the new owner chooses to follow. It will be fascinating not only to gauge your feedback but to discover whether any of our loyal Barn Finders may consider pursuing this classic further.