1964 Chevrolet Corvair

Convertible

GAS

Automatic

40967W165549

Clear

GAS

This is an unrestored, ultra-rare "Paint Code 940" Monza convertible, purchased new from Francis Chevrolet in St. Louis. Francis was a legendary purveyor of unique Chevy muscle cars in the 60's, similar to Nickey Chevrolet in Chicago. Francis Chevrolet Bridgeton Mo Like many Francis cars, this one features elusive options, like Satin Silver Metallic paint, a fully tinted windshield, and an extremely rare Delco AM/FM radio, with optional rear mounted antenna. It also came equipped with the optional 110 HP engine, and Powerglide automatic transmission. This car runs and drives reasonably well, but will require extensive restoration to become a show car. Below I've listed the good and the bad. The convertible top, vinyl boot, and interior are in pretty good shape, but the carpets are worn out, and all weatherstrips need to be replaced. The windshield and side glass is in good condition, but the rear plastic window has a tiny B.B. hole in it. The floor beneath the back seat (often rusty in convertibles) is still original and intact (see picture). The front floors have had steel replacement panels welded in. The gas gauge doesn't work, but the headlights, front and rear running lights, turn signals, back-up lights, interior lights, dash lights, and glovebox light all work properly. The transmission has a slight delay into reverse, but shifts and operates normal otherwise. The exhaust system is good, and the all-important rear wheel bearings are quiet. The car needs radial tires. The old bias-ply tires have lots of tread left, but they're dried out. The original spare, and jack are included with the car. The brakes work, but a couple of wheel cylinders feel lazy from not being driven much. The engine and transaxle are not the original to this car. The engine is a 110 HP (like the original) out of a '65 Corvair, and it leaks oil. I have removed the heater box sheet metal to keep fumes from entering the car. The car's paint is presentable from a distance, but there are more than enough flaws and small rust spots to warrant repainting (see pictures). It also needs a new rear grill. Overall, I'd say the car has less than typical body rust, and the jacking points and front crossmember are all solid. You could probably drive this Corvair reliably the way it is, but I really hope someone sees the restoration possibilities. A true Satin Silver Monza convertible is a very rare bird. I've asked about 10 sellers of silver Corvairs on eBay, and it turned out none of the cars were originally silver (thank you to all those kind enough to check their color codes for me). I also spoke to a gentleman who worked as a Chevy salesman in the 60's, and he told me they were actually instructed to discourage customers from ordering Satin Silver cars. He said the paint had "adhesion problems", and the metal flake was difficult to match on repairs. This of course is no longer an issue with modern day paints. Hopefully this Corvair's historic origin, desirable options, and rare color combination will appeal to someone who wants a Corvair with features most Corvairs can never have. Even in its current condition, there's something regal about this car's presence. Please check my feedback, and bid with confidence. The Corvair is titled in my name, and free of liens.On Oct-17-12 at 06:15:15 PDT, seller added the following information: Question from Member: my dad is interested in your car, but he's old school,, no computer. please call robert at (removed). Answer: Thanks, sounds like my kind of guy. Anyone who wishes to speak with me about the car can call (five six one) 371-zero nine five seven.On Oct-17-12 at 20:03:49 PDT, seller added the following information: Question from Member: Can you please send me a close up picture of the radio. Thanks Answer: I'll need your email, or I can try to post it on the auction. On Oct-21-12 at 05:46:30 PDT, seller added the following information: Please be advised that I sustained an accident this week that left me with 2 broken ribs, and restricted mobility. I will do my best to faciltate the pick up of the Corvair, but my usual level of customer service may not be possible. I won't be able to change tires, or prepare the car for a road trip, as a few people have asked (I don't recomend that anyway). Also, the car is currently parked at my sister's farm in SW Michigan, about 88 miles southeast of downtown Chicago. This may benifit the winning bidder depending on their location, but otherwise, The Vair Shop in Frankfort, IL has offered to trailer the car back to the Chicago area for me if pick up is preferred there. That would of course be sometime following the auction's end. Please call me if you wish to discuss anything. -Thank you-