Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com
The Chevrolet Corvair, with its innovative rear-engine, air-cooled design, carved a unique niche in the American automotive landscape of the 1960s. The Monza Spyder variant, introduced in 1962, added a sporty flair with its turbocharged engine and distinctive styling cues. This 1964 Chevrolet Corvair Monza Spyder Club Coupe, offered at no reserve, underwent a comprehensive refurbishment between 2015 and 2018, including a repaint, interior re-trim, and mechanical work. Notably, its restored beauty was later showcased in Richard Lentinello’s book “Corvair Style.” Finished in Azure Aqua over an Aqua vinyl interior, this Spyder is powered by its original turbocharged flat-six engine mated to a four-speed manual transaxle and boasts several desirable features.
A Stylish and Unique Design: The Corvair Monza Spyder Club Coupe was the first unibody model produced by Fisher Body, and this example left the factory finished in an attractive Azure Aqua. As part of its refurbishment, the car was stripped and repainted in this original hue, bringing its classic lines back to life. Details include quad headlights, a driver-side mirror, tinted glass, and chrome bumpers. A reproduction rear grille and replaced exterior badging and weatherstripping further enhance its restored appearance.
Turbocharged Power and Engaging Drivetrain: The heart of the Monza Spyder was its rear-mounted, air-cooled, and turbocharged 164 cubic inch flat-six engine. Sporty Performance for its Era: From the factory, this engine was rated at 150 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, providing spirited performance for a compact sports coupe of the time. As part of the refurbishment, the engine was rebuilt, and the turbocharger was also rebuilt. Additional work included installing a vacuum advance/retard unit, a rebuilt starter, a magnesium fan, resealing the engine, replacing the thermostat bellows, fuel tank, and sender, and adding an electric fuel pump. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transaxle, offering an engaging and driver-focused experience. The car is also fitted with a short-throw shifter for quicker gear changes and quick steering arms for more responsive handling.
Upgraded Chassis and Wheels: This Monza Spyder rides on striking 13-inch Dayton wire wheels secured with distinctive two-ear knockoffs, fitted with 185/80 Diamond wide-white tires. The Corvair’s factory independent suspension, utilizing coil springs all around and swing axles at the rear, provided a comfortable ride for its era. As part of the refurbishment, the pitman arm and control rod bushings, as well as the rear shocks, were replaced, contributing to improved handling. Stopping power is provided by drum brakes at all four corners.
Refreshed Interior with Modern Touches: The interior of this Spyder has been completely refreshed with replacement Aqua vinyl upholstery on the front bucket and rear bench seats, sourced from Clark’s Corvair. The dash pad and carpets were also replaced with items from the same supplier. Further work included replacing the headliner, parcel tray, door panels, armrests, and lap belts. A notable upgrade is the Aurora Design–modified radio, which retains the classic look while incorporating modern electronics and Bluetooth capability. The car also features a heater, brushed metal trim, and Monza Spyder badging.
Driver-Focused Cockpit: The two-spoke steering wheel with a chrome horn ring complements the sporty character of the Monza Spyder. Instrumentation includes a 120-mph speedometer, a 6,000-rpm tachometer, and gauges for manifold pressure, cylinder head temperature, and fuel level. The five-digit odometer shows 61,000 miles, with approximately 500 added under current ownership. It is noted that the manifold pressure and fuel level gauges are not entirely accurate.
Featured in “Corvair Style”: This meticulously refurbished Monza Spyder holds the distinction of being featured in Richard Lentinello’s book “Corvair Style,” a testament to the quality of the restoration. A copy of this book will accompany the sale, adding to its provenance. Decoding the Fisher body tag provides further details about its original build, including its October 1963 build date, Azure Aqua paint, Aqua vinyl upholstery, four-speed transmission, Convenience Group, padded dashboard, and Custom Deluxe seatbelts.
Summary:
- Refurbished model featured in the book “Corvair Style.”
- Powered by a turbocharged 164ci flat-six engine.
- Equipped with a four-speed manual transaxle and short shifter.
- Rides on 13-inch Dayton wire wheels with knockoffs.
- Interior re-trimmed in Aqua vinyl with an Aurora Design–modified radio.
- Features quick steering arms, heater, and tinted glass.
- Includes owner’s manual and refurbishment records.
- Offered at no reserve with a clean Florida title.
Disclaimer: This vehicle has undergone a refurbishment, and some gauges are noted to be inaccurate. Potential buyers are advised to review all documentation and conduct their own assessment.
AI Assistance: Gemini
