4-speed Monza convertible with incredibly rare factory A/C. Nice older restoration still in great condition. Also features power convertible top and real chrome wire wheels. Runs and drives great, very solid and clean, an unusual Corvair ready to enjoy!

We’re fans of the unusual and seeing that giant brick of an A/C condenser on top of the engine in this 1963 Chevrolet Corvair Monza convertible certainly qualifies. When was the last time you saw A/C in a Corvair, never mind a ragtop? The restoration was finished perhaps 15 years ago, so it has some use and mileage on it, but it still presents quite well in its original code 948 Palomar Red. The dark red paint gives the Corvair a grown-up look and makes it seem more substantial than many of its siblings. Bodywork is nicely done and we see no signs of shoddy workmanship, just a few minor signs of use like a small ding in the driver’s door. Panel fit is very good, including the doors, which suggests that the structure underneath is sound—especially critical in a Corvair convertible. There’s nice chrome and trim, too, including the bumpers, stainless headlight surrounds, and fluted rocker trim that’s unique to the ‘63s. Accessory twin deck-mounted antennas are a familiar Chevy detail and the glass is in excellent shape all around.

The black vinyl interior is in excellent condition and shows almost no wear. Bucket seats were standard equipment in the Monza convertible and the woodgrained wheel helps add a sporting touch that was part of the Corvair’s mission. Standard gauges cover speed and fuel level, with controls for the heat and A/C to the right of the steering column. And you’ll note that the center-mounted A/C unit has a built-in hand throttle to improve airflow over the condenser using the engine fan. Crisply rendered door panels help with the upscale image and a cue ball shifter knob is always cool. Adding to this Corvair’s long list of features is a white power convertible top, which stows itself neatly and the car includes a matching black vinyl boot to make it look finished. The forward-mounted trunk includes correct gray spatter paint, a matching full-sized spare (no room for it in the engine bay due to the A/C, so the forward mount is correct for this car), a jack with knock-off hammer, and even a bottle of washer solvent on the inner fender. Nice!

The engine is the same 110-horsepower flat-6 that’s common to most Corvairs, and it’s a good one. Fed by dual carburetors, it’s surprisingly torquey and digs out of corners with enthusiasm when paired with the 4-speed manual gearbox. If you can see underneath the condenser, you’ll find a nicely detailed engine bay with correct components and finishes, from the generator to the twin Rochester carburetors, to the unique air filter housing for the A/C car. And, of course, there’s a familiar Frigidaire A6 compressor, which was used through the GM lineup. The engine starts easily, idles nicely, and zips around down with a great 6-cylinder whoosh from the engine bay, making the Corvair a lot of fun to drive. Clutch action is reasonable and even though the transmission is way back there, it’s easy to find the gears even when you’re hustling. Underneath, you’ll find that the floors are in great condition with only a light dusting of undercoating to seal things up. The suspension is surprisingly supple yet quite competent, and with the engine in the back, there’s no need for power steering. Brakes are adequate for the car’s performance and weight and those chrome wire wheels look awesome wearing 185/80/13 whitewall radials for a period perfect look.

Documentation includes an owner’s manual, warranty booklet, and convertible top instruction book.

We like Corvairs a lot and this one appeals to us more than most. The 4-speed and color combination would have won us over, but the A/C and power top are just icing on the cake. It runs and drives quite well, doesn’t have any rust issues, and shows nicely. If you’re looking for an affordable, yet unusual, hobby car, this Corvair deserves a closer look. Call today!

Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.