Cheap Wheels Runner? 1964 Chevrolet Corvair

Chevrolet made some big changes to its air-cooled marvel in 1964, even though a redesign was coming in 1965 for the Corvair. A transverse rear leaf spring was added to improve cornering under the swing-axle rear suspension that bugged safety activist Ralph Nader. And an anti-sway bar became standard up front to assist in the same manner. So, the 1964 Corvair was a better car than its predecessors. The seller has a ’64 Monza Coupe that’s in running condition and is available here on craigslist and in Moyie Springs, Idaho, for the cheap wheels price of just $2,000.

The Corvair was Chevy’s first compact, arriving in 1960. It was unorthodox compared to other American cars because of its rear-mounted motor. It was a popular automobile at first but was joined anyway by the more contemporary Chevy II in 1962, giving the GM division two players in this growing market. Besides the changes to the suspension of the 1964 Corvairs, the base engine was increased from 145 to 164 cubic inches.

This Monza looks like a bargain when it comes to vintage vehicles. The engine runs, thanks to rebuilt carburetors (2?) and a recent tune-up. It has Corvair’s version of a Powerglide automatic transmission and tires that should be good for occasional use. The seller says it needs a battery, which I would have replaced before listing the car for sale and bumped the price by $100.

The body seems to be fine, though the blue paint is faded. A bit of rust may be on the hood (or is that the trunk lid?). We’re told the interior is only “fair,” and no photos of it are provided. The low price may partly be due to the fact that there is no title, which is stated as “missing”. Perhaps this will be a modest project that will have you going to Cars & Coffee in no time. Another Pacific NW tip from “Curvette”!