1965-1969 Corvair Corsa and Monza

by Jim Schrager

The second-generation Corvair was one of the cleanest designs of its day. Although many predicted classic status because of its unusual rear-engine, six-cylinder boxer powerplants, 30 years later there is no shortage of decent cars around $5,000, with $9,000 buying a sharp turbocharged Corsa convertible. Corvairs are delightful to drive, with a light touch to the controls, decent power and the sportscar-like road handing that only a 911-style double-jointed rear axle can deliver. The steering was unassisted, light and direct, a revelation for those accustomed to any other American car of the era. The brakes, drums all around, were typical Detroit fare but worked well on a car that weighed at least a few hundred pounds less than its competitors. The seats were large soft buckets, and the interior felt huge because it lacked a transmission hump. The base Monza engine made 110hp, while the Corsa engine bumped that to 140hp. The optional turbo was rated at 180hp...