This 1966 Chevrolet Corvair Monza presents exceptionally well. Although it has more doors than many enthusiasts prefer, it is a practical classic ideal for those with young children. The seller states that they have recently installed many new parts, ensuring that the buyer slips behind the wheel of a turnkey classic. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P. for spotting the Corvair listed here on Craigslist in Westfield, Indiana. The seller set their price at $14,000 for this beauty.
Vehicle production can be a high-risk venture. Companies that get it right reap the reward with excellent sales and impressive profits. Getting it wrong sometimes leads to financial ruin. Therefore, it is unusual for manufacturers to commence development with a clean slate. However, that was Chevrolet’s approach when it commenced work on its ground-breaking Corvair. It sourced virtually nothing from existing models, with the car’s engineering representing a bold move by Detroit to play European manufacturers at their own game. The First Generation wasn’t a looker, but the Second Generation was a game-changer. Introduced in 1965, the styling was contemporary and crisp, and stands up well sixty years after this Corvair Monza rolled off the line. Finished in Artesian Turquoise with Silver stripes, it is an extremely attractive vehicle. The paint shines richly, the panels are straight, and there is no evidence of rust. The seller states that this beauty has received plenty of show awards, and its appearance makes that claim plausible. The trim and glass are in good condition, and the aftermarket wheels, paired with the stripes, lend a sense of purpose.
Detroit typically followed a tried-and-true path to drivetrain configurations in the 1950s and 1960s. Placing the noisy and oily bits at the front and the driven wheels at the back was standard fare, but Chevrolet broke the mold with the Corvair. Inspired by the success of the Volkswagen Beetle, its latest offering featured a rear-mounted, air-cooled, horizontally opposed motor that sent power to the rear wheels. In this case, the buyer receives the 164ci six, delivering 110hp and 160 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a two-speed Powerglide. The engine bay presentation is spotless, and it doesn’t flatter to deceive. The seller recently installed new suspension, brake, and engine parts. The car runs and drives perfectly, and apart from some typical age-related oil drips, has no known issues.
Trimmed in Turquoise vinyl, this Corvair’s interior is as impressive as the rest of the vehicle. The seller recently fitted new carpet and a retro-style stereo. Otherwise, its appearance is as it left the factory. There is no appreciable wear, the dash is excellent, and the pad is spotless. The gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings, and there is enough back seat space to accommodate growing teens. Therefore, this Corvair’s interior perfectly combines impressive presentation with practicality.
Ralph Nader’s book, Unsafe at Any Speed, severely damaged the reputation of Chevrolet’s Corvair. That’s a shame, because most of the traits criticized in that publication were ancient history by the time the Second Generation range hit showroom floors. The updated styling looked crisp and modern, and the handling was satisfying and predictable. This 1966 Corvair Monza is a perfect example of the strides made during the badge’s production life, and it’s a beauty. It stands out for the right reasons, and I believe it will quickly find a new home. Do you agree?
Didn’t Ed Cole testify before Congress that the rear-engine layout of the VW beetle was unsafe, and that Chevrolet would never build a rear-engine car? Then, about 5 years later, Ed Cole led the project that became the Corvair.
Never understand why someone puts chrome wheels and striping on a four door of any model. It just looks silly. Let it be what it is…. a family car with wheel covers.
Now that’s a hot rod!
I didn’t even notice the extra doors from a quick glance at the lead photo until I read the first line of the writeup. The ’65 and up is a very sleek body design