1964 Chevrolet Corvair Monza

Description

For 12 grand you could probably find a pretty decent Chrysler Sebring convertible. Or maybe a Miata or something. If you're in the market for a unique drop-top and that's what you've got to spend then we've got the car for you: This solid 1964 Corvair in classic colors will set you back less cash than should be possible!

Now, for the asking price here you're not going to get a concours winner, but this Corvair is in better shape than you'd think. The paint was done very recently and looks great aside from a little orange peel, but you really need to get up close to see any of it. There's plenty of gloss, and the brightwork is 100% intact and shows well. Azure Aqua is a great color on any classic Chevy and it's perfect on a convertible...it just screams with a surfer bum vibe. The top's intact with no tears or holes, and it cleans up pretty well. The glass is all original and looks good for its age. 1964 Was the last year for the original Corvair body style, and was the most refined of the early cars.

The seat covers were replaced a number of years ago but still look great. The carpet is nearly new and devoid of stains or marks. The door panels are also older but in very nice shape. Corvette's influence in the double hump dash is unmistakable, and it's all stock here down to the original AM radio. With no engine or transmission up front the floor is completely flat, and there's more legroom for the driver and front passenger. The large steering wheel is original and even with manual steering the effort is really low thanks to the lack of weight up front. The Monza trim level brought along the bucket seats and padded dash inside and some unique trim outside, and with that flat floor, you can pick three friends and head out on a road trip; this is a very cool cruiser that's surprisingly practical.

Pop the hood and you'll find a spare tire and the jack. Then remember that this is a rear engine car and open that lid, too. It's an air-cooled flat six displacing 2.7 liters and making 95 horsepower, which is plenty to move around such a lightweight car. Twin carburetors feed the hungry cylinders and tune up parts are newer. It's a simple, easy engine to work on, and it runs great. The car's been well cared for and was in the same family for the last forty years...talk about long term ownership! Any mention of the Corvair probably has to include Ralph Nader, and 1964 model year cars addressed most of the complaints in Unsafe at any Speed. There's a front sway bar (standard for the first time in '64) and a transverse leaf spring to assist the rear swing axle out back. Corvairs still take a bit to get used to, but this is an easy car to drive with predictable handling that actually feels quite sporting when hustled. The brakes work great, as does the 2-speed PowerGlide automatic transmission. Stock wheels with original hubcaps are at all four corners, with Uniroyal Tiger Paw radial tires meeting the road. The stance is nice and level just as it should be.

So, moderately used boring-mobile or cool classic? You know where we stand...pick up the phone and call today!