granted that the 59 would not absorb the energy (does not appear the engine is there as Scott stated) as the 09 because of engineered crumple zones, with the empty space of the engine bay of the 59 would cause much more damage because the engine mounting points and the chassis would help deflect some of the impact from the passanger compartment.
Its a shame that they would total a 50yr old vehicle. I get upset seeing these old classics being destoryed for no reason. Just like the last Dukes of Hazzard movie. No doubt I would rather (God I pray not) be in a collission in my 06 Accord then my 67 Chevelle. Its also easy to replace the accord, but they are not making anymore 42 year old Chevelles the last time I looked...
Interesting find Scott....
Blessings,
AMS