Automotive Landscape of 1958
A look at models launched in 1958
- Mar 24: Elvis Presley Buys a BMW 507 – While serving in Germany, rock star Elvis Presley purchases a rare BMW 507 sports car, cementing the luxury roadster's cultural status in pop culture.
- Sep 12: Jack Kilby and Automotive Electronics – The invention of the integrated circuit lays the distant foundation for future electronic engine control units (ECUs), anti-lock braking systems, and modern automotive computing.
- Oct 1: General Motors Introduces Flat-Top Styling – GM introduces sweeping panoramic windshields and massive pillarless "flat-top" roof designs across Chevrolet, Buick, Oldsmobile, and Cadillac lineups.
- Nov 15: Chrysler Develops Alternator – Chrysler becomes the first major automaker to replace heavy DC generators with reliable silicon-diode alternators across its production vehicles, vastly improving electrical system longevity.
US
Chevrolet Impala
Bel Air Impala
POWER
315 HP
RARITY
181,469 Sold
US
Edsel Ranger
Sedan
POWER
345 HP
RARITY
63,000 Sold
US
Subaru 360
Microcar
POWER
25 HP
RARITY
40,000 Sold
US
Edsel Corsair
Hardtop
POWER
345 HP
RARITY
9,110 Sold
EUROPE
NSU Prinz
Prinz I / II
POWER
30 HP
RARITY
94,000 Sold
EUROPE
Austin-Healey Sprite
Frogeye / Bugeye
POWER
43 HP
RARITY
48,987 Sold
EUROPE
Aston Martin DB4
Series I
POWER
240 HP
RARITY
1,210 Sold
ASIA
Subaru 360
Kei Car
POWER
25 HP
RARITY
392,000 Sold