The Revolutionary 1964 Chevrolet Corvair Series: A New Era in American Cars

 The 1964 Chevrolet Corvair Series 700 Series DeLuxe Sedan holds a unique place in automotive history. As an economy sedan, it initially competed with other compact cars like the Ford Falcon and Plymouth Valiant. However, what set the Corvair apart was its groundbreaking engineering approach. With an air-cooled flat opposed 4- or 6-cylinder rear-mounted engine, it showcased innovation and provided a glimpse into future GM styling themes. Despite its early success, the Corvair faced challenges from the emergence of ‘pony’ cars and the infamous book by Ralph Nader, “Unsafe At Any Speed,” ultimately leading to its discontinuation in 1969.

The Innovative Engineering of the Corvair

One of the standout features of the Corvair was its all-aluminum engine, which contributed to its lightweight and durable construction. Road and Track magazine praised the Corvair for its exceptional design. However, Ralph Nader, a well-known critic of automobile safety, disagreed. In his book, “Unsafe At Any Speed,” Nader highlighted safety concerns and the lack of standards in the United States. He specifically targeted the Corvair, claiming that the rear wheels would “tuck under” during turns, resulting in a potential rollover. Although some of these issues were addressed in the 1964 model, Nader remained adamant that the Corvair was still the “leading candidate for the unsafest car title.”

The Battle with Ralph Nader and General Motors

Nader’s book attracted significant attention, leading to legal disputes between him and General Motors. In an attempt to discredit Nader, General Motors investigated his background but found no incriminating evidence. This situation only made General Motors appear more guilty, and as a result, Corvair sales plummeted from 220,000 in 1965 to a mere 14,800 in 1968. The following year, the decision was made to discontinue the production of the Corvair.

The Corvair Monza: The Sporty Model of the Corvair Lineup

Among the four original Corvair models, the Monza convertible option stood out as the sportiest. In 1964, it came with a factory price of $2,492, offering a 164 cubic-inch engine capable of producing 110 horsepower. The Monza’s attractive design and performance appealed to those seeking a youtaful and dynamic driving experience.

The Rise of Compact Cars and the Corvair’s Impact

During the 1950s, the “Big Three” automakers (Chrysler, Ford, and GM) primarily focused on intermediate and full-size vehicles. However, the recession of 1957 prompted consumers to seek more affordable and economical options. American Motors experienced a boost in sales during this period, prompting other automakers to explore the compact car market. By the early 1960s, the Big Three had introduced their own compact models, featuring smaller designs and four- or six-cylinder engines.

Chevrolet, led by General Manager Ed Cole, took a revolutionary approach and introduced the Corvair. With its air-cooled, rear-mounted engine, compact automatic transaxle, and unibody construction, the Corvair defied convention. It boasted independent suspension, wide low-profile tires, and elegant styling without the excessive use of chrome. The engineering and design innovations earned the Corvair accolades, including being named the 1960 Motor Trend ‘Car of the Year.’

The 1964 Chevrolet Corvair: Changes and Challenges

The 1964 model year marked the final year of the original styling introduced in 1960. Sales of the Corvair dipped due to increasing competition, including from within the Chevrolet brand itself. The introduction of the Chevy II, with its conservative styling and front-engine layout, appealed to buyers seeking contemporary designs. Additionally, Ford’s Mustang, launched in mid-1964, captivated the market with its youthful and sporty image. Safety concerns related to the Corvair’s handling issues also contributed to its declining popularity.

The 1964 Corvair Series 500 served as the base trim level, priced at $2,000. It featured essential amenities such as electric wipers, a heater and defroster, rubber floor mats, and front armrests. The Series 700 DeLuxe Sedan, priced at $2,120, offered additional chrome exterior moldings, upgraded interior, and fender model nameplates. The Corvair Monza Series 900 showcased wider rocker panel moldings, full wheel covers, and trim moldings along the wheel cutouts. It came in various body styles, including a two-door club coupe, a sedan, and a convertible. The Monza Monza Spyder Series 600 had distinguishing features like a turbocharged engine and special badges.

Conclusion

The 1964 Chevrolet Corvair Series 700 DeLuxe Sedan played a significant role in automotive history. Its innovative engineering, distinct styling, and early success marked it as a trailblazer in the American automobile industry. However, safety concerns and competition from other models led to its eventual discontinuation. The Corvair remains an iconic and controversial car, forever remembered for its impact on automotive design and safety standards.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Is the Corvair still in production? No, the production of the Corvair ceased in 1969.

2. What were the main safety concerns with the Corvair? The main safety concerns revolved around the Corvair’s handling, particularly during turns, which could potentially lead to rollovers.

3. How many Corvairs were produced between 1960 and 1969? A total of 1,786,243 Corvairs were produced during that period.

4. What led to the decline in Corvair sales? Factors such as competition from other models, safety concerns, and the release of Ralph Nader’s book “Unsafe At Any Speed” contributed to the decline in Corvair sales.

5. Are there any surviving Corvairs today? Yes, there are still many Corvairs in existence today, with dedicated enthusiasts and collectors keeping the legacy alive.

A Classic Beauty Awakens: 1964 Pontiac GTO with Mysterious Modifications Unveiled After 40 Years in Storage

 Pontiac kicked off the GTO production in September 1963, and as most petrol heads know already, the new nameplate was originally offered as an option for the LeMans.

The first GTO could be ordered as a coupe, hardtop, or convertible, and cost just $295. It was a fair price for a massive upgrade that included a 389 (6.4-liter) V8 with 325 horsepower (the maximum power was increased to 348 horsepower if the Tri-Power option was installed), dual exhaust pipes, a three-speed manual transmission, a new front sway bar, hood scoops, and the famous GTO badges.

The GTO that we're all looking at here was produced in February, so it's one of the first units to roll off the assembly lines (Pontiac produced close to 32,500 GTOs for the model year 1964).

Sure enough, it no longer comes with a tip-top shape, but this isn't necessarily a surprise after approximately four decades in storage.

eBay seller tim54575 says the car was parked inside on a concrete floor, but this didn't help much because it still had to face extreme temperatures. As such, the GTO now comes in poor condition, so saving it will require a lot of work.

For some reason, though, the car has already received a series of very questionable changes during its lifetime. For example, the four horizontal headlights are no longer there, so I wouldn’t be surprised if you believed this was a 1965 GTO.

A previous owner replaced the original front fascia with one donated by a later GTO, so it now sports the vertical headlights that you typically find on the 1965 model year.

The car still sports the pedals for the manual transmission, but on the other hand, it now comes with an automatic unit. It's unclear who and why performed this swap, but the next buyer will have to decide which way to go anyway.

The 389 under the hood no longer runs and comes without the Tri-Power upgrade. Unfortunately, we have no clue if the engine can still be saved, but after four decades in storage, I think it's safe to assume it's already locked up from sitting.

The car comes with the original owner's manual, but otherwise, it lacks all the other paperwork. Again, this isn't surprising, given it spent 40 years in hiding, but it makes it harder to figure out what happened to this otherwise very intriguing GTO.

Getting it back on the road is going to be a challenge, not only because of all the rust and the dirty interior but also due to the unclear health of the engine. Interested buyers should travel to Minnesota to check it out in person.

In the meantime, the bidding is underway, and the top offer at the time of press is $5,000. The auction will expire in approximately six days.

Meticulously Restored 1968 Plymouth Road Runner, an Irresistible Investment Opportunity

 Even though it wasn't on the market for that many years, the Plymouth Road Runner made such a big splash that it remains a sought-after model. A true collectible, it caters to petrolheads of all ages, though most of them weren't even born back when the Chrysler-owned brand, which was discontinued in 2001, made it.

The first generation lived from 1968 to 1970, and Plymouth gave birth to its successor the following year. Unlike the original, which came as a coupe and convertible, the second-gen was offered with a fixed-roof design solely, and so was the third generation, which entered production in 1975. The nameplate was dropped altogether in 1980, leaving a void that has yet to be filled.

We all know the automotive industry would be better with more muscle cars, so we won't even mention it. Oh, wait, we just did. And with that reference aside, it's time to present you with a 1968 Plymouth Road Runner that deserves your attention.

It is part of the first generation, and even if it was made back when man had yet to step on the Moon, this old-timer is in great condition all around.

The top-notch form is due to a complete restoration process, during which every part was given a new lease on life. Not only that, but it has a restomod twist as well, with several upgraded components such as the brakes, which feature cross-drilled discs.

The car is presented in a nice shade of green with a black hood that sports a large scoop and has several shiny accents on the outside. It rides on American Racing wheels with a five-spoke design and a chrome look, and it seems ready to take on whatever its next owner might throw at it.

Don't think it lacks in the power department because it doesn't. At its heart lies the 440-ci V8, a 7.2-liter unit that used to be the range-topping offering back in the day. We do not know how much it puts out, but it was good for 390 horsepower back in the day.

We now have punchier hot hatches, but remember that this car came out 55 years ago. Transmission options included a three-speed automatic and a four-speed manual, and this one is in the two-pedal configuration.

Pre-purchase inspections are welcomed, the GarageKeptMotors listing reveals, and to sign your name on the dotted line, you will have to pay new Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Jailbreak money on it.

The modern-day muscle car has an MSRP of $87,295, and this old-timer with gorgeous looks costs $89,900. So, is this 1968 Plymouth Road Runner worth it, or would you rather get something newer instead for that kind of money?

A Journey of Hope: Stray Cat Finds Loving Family, Gives Birth to Bonded Trio of Tabby Kittens

A heartwarming tale unfolds as a fragile stray cat discovers an oasis of compassion in the yard of a kind-hearted family during a summer’s day. Drawn by her hunger, she returned time and again, and it became evident that she carried a precious secret within her. 

Stef and Johanne, dedicated animal rescuers from Montreal, Canada, emerged as the heroes, extending a helping hand to ensure the pregnant cat’s well-being. As her pregnancy advanced, the need for a safe haven became paramount.

Following a visit to the veterinary clinic, the expectant mother found herself embraced by the comforts of her new home, meticulously prepared by Stef and Johanne. A serene and cozy space awaited her, providing solace for the impending arrival. The gentle tabby indulged in a satisfying meal before settling into the haven, finally able to unwind and enjoy some much-needed rest.

Stef and Johanne took turns tending to her needs, fully prepared for the momentous occasion. A few days later, the cat went into labor, beginning a challenging yet awe-inspiring journey. Supported by unwavering care and assistance, she successfully gave birth to a litter of three robust mini tabbies.

Leelo, Elijah, and Jasper, the affectionately named trio, quickly formed an unbreakable bond, always huddled together in a heap of purrs that warmed hearts. Their connection provided solace and contentment, a testament to the power of sibling unity.

Under the nurturing guidance of their devoted tabby mother, the kittens thrived until they were weaned and ready to embark on their own explorations. The inseparable brothers ventured into the world together, an embodiment of harmony within their clowder. Playfulness filled their days as they mirrored each other’s antics, joyously engaging in adorable wrestling matches.

Their watchful eyes never strayed far from one another’s presence, for their bond was unyielding. If separated for too long, their plaintive cries would echo through the air. As the kittens grew, the former stray cat, having fulfilled her motherly duties, was ready to retire from her role. Celine Crom of Chatons Orphelins Montréal expressed, “She has found a loving family who will care for her, and she will be spayed and adopted.”

This remarkable journey of hope showcases the transformative power of love and compassion. From a frail stray to a cherished family member, this cat’s story intertwines with that of her cherished offspring, leaving a lasting legacy of resilience and unity.

1964 Dodge 330 Max Wedge Is A Super Rare Sleeper

 The Dodge 330 was produced briefly from 1962 to 1964 when it was part of the Polara line. Chrysler’s first full-size B-body sedan, the 330 wasn’t the most iconic Dodge from the 1960s, but it did spawn one of the rarest race cars of its time: the Max Wedge.

Dodge only built a few for the Super Class of stock, and the surviving cars are now some of the most valuable Mopars from the 1960s. 330 Max Wedges and examples of numbers are hard to come by. Low miles are extremely rare.

Amazingly, such a car appeared on eBay after it had been in storage for so long. There’s some bad news, though: the original Max Wedge factory is no longer in operation.

The cool thing about this powerful 330 is that you can’t tell it’s a race car. It looks just as mundane as the regular 330, fitted as standard with a 145-horsepower 3.7-liter inline-six. This example is no exception and it doesn’t even have flashy colors. It is finished in plain black, so it will fly under the radar.

According to the seller, who bought the car in 2008, the 330 has been in the garage for the past 12 years. The black two-door car has not been repainted, so it retains the original paint color. The exterior shows various signs of wear and tear, but no rust and it really isn’t too bad as this 330 is 57 years old as of 2021.

The story is the same inside the cabin. The all-red vinyl and fabric upholstery is still original and it looks absolutely beautiful except for some discoloration. The floor has a bit of surface rust, but that’s an easy fix during a light restoration.

Now comes the disappointing part. This 330 no longer has the original Max Wedge under the hood. The owner doesn’t seem to know the whereabouts of the original engine and transmission; they have been replaced by slightly more modern units.

The original Max Wedge came with a large 7.0-liter RB-type V8 with a four-barrel carburetor. It is rated to have a huge capacity of 425 horsepower, on par with a muscle car from the early 1970s.

These cars were the fastest factory-built vintage cars over a quarter-mile when they debuted. Especially since they are equipped with lightweight, aluminum front clamps.

For example, the 330 here is one of only 23 built. It’s also one of only two examples that combine a black exterior with red interior trim and optional heating.

So what will replace the iconic Max Wedge engine under the hood? The owner says it draws its juice from a “more modern” 7.2-liter V8, which is connected to a “1965+” transmission and rear end. He doesn’t know how much output it produces but says the engine will run, despite having been idle “for years.”

The 1966 Plymouth Belvedere: A Discreet Exterior Hiding a Powerful HEMI V8 Engine

 When talking about Plymouths from the golden muscle car era, we usually remember the Barracuda, Road Runner, and the GTX. But the Belvedere and the Satellite, which are often overlooked, are just as cool. In fact, they make even nicer sleepers when finished in plain colors and fitted with the mighty 426 HEMI under the hood.

Yup, the bottom-line Belvedere also got the muscular 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) V8. The nameplate actually joined the muscle car market as early as 1962, when Mopar rolled out the race-bred Max Wedge mill, but the Belvedere got the HEMI as soon as it became available in 1966.

But the HEMI-powered Belvedere wasn't particularly popular that year, because Plymouth sold only about 700 of them. Come 2022 and they're quite difficult to find.

Especially if you're looking for low-mileage, unrestored and unmolested survivors. It's the kind of classic many of us won't get to see in the metal very often, but Mark O'Malia was lucky enough to get his hands on one.

Spotted by Lou Costabile at Carlisle Events 2022, this 1966 Belvedere II Hardtop is one of 531 made that year with a HEMI V8, but its condition and odometer reading make it an incredible classic.

That's because this car is an all-original survivor that hasn't been restored and boasts an odometer that shows only 23,776 miles (38,264 km).

How is that possible? Well, let's just say that this Belvedere was pampered since day one and the previous owners treated it like a garage queen. According to Mark, who bought the car in 2021, the first owner drove it for only 16,000 miles (25,750 km) until 1973.

The second owner gave it even less time on public roads, enjoying it for just 7,000 miles (11,265 km) in 38 years.

But low mileage and fabulous condition aren't the only features that make this Belvedere a great classic. It's also one of the coolest sleepers out there. Painted white and fitted with a black interior with a front bench, this Mopar is anything but mean as far as looks go.

But all that changes when the 426 HEMI roars to life and sends 425 horsepower to the rear wheels. Definitely not your grandma's Sunday driver.

Speaking of spinning the wheels, the HEMI V8 reaches the rear axle through a three-speed automatic, which narrows the production numbers down to only 251 units.

How many of them were finished in this combo and are still around today? Fewer than 20, perhaps? So not only a cool sleeper and an amazing survivor, but this HEMI Belvedere II is also a six-figure collectible.

Did you also notice the blue line tires? That's a one-year-only feature, so you won't see it on Plymouths from different model years unless it's an aftermarket add-on.

Anyway, hit the play button below to take a walk around what has to be the finest 1966 HEMI Belvedere survivor out there.