Type 59:
Pros:
+ No need to grind the USSR medium line to get a fun tank
+ Makes some awesome money
+ Matchmaking likes this tank for some reason
+ It's Chinese!
Cons:
- Slow compared to the T-54
- No upgrading for the Chinese

- Can't use the it to train crews for other tanks
- Costs a ton of real money
T-54
Pros:
+ Great speed and manueverability
+ Awesome cannons available
+ Upgradeable
+ More health points
+ A nice camo value
Cons:
- A long grind to get it
- Not so good at making money, but with premium, you can make some cash
- As it's tier 9, you'll be facing a lot of tough opponents
- Many people hate this tank because it used to be OP