How one enthusiast made his lifelong dream of owning a first-generation Corvair convertible come true.
For many Corvair owners, having a single Corvair parked in their garage simply isn’t enough. These cars are addicting, and once you own a Corvair, chances are great that one day soon you will own another one. Yet for others, the opportunity to own just one Corvair will be plenty enough, especially if garage space is at a premium. No matter what your situation or desires may be, Corvair ownership is something to be proud of, as these air-cooled mechanical marvels are a treat to drive. They’re different, and in a good way.
The owner of the stunning Monza convertible featured here is Tony Penz, of Kingston, New York. Back in the 1960s, Tony had a well-used Monza coupe that he relied on to get him to Ft. Meade, Maryland, from his then home in Levittown, Pennsylvania, so he could play clarinet in the First U.S. Army band. In 1967, Tony bought a brand-new Monza convertible, yet always lusted after a 1964 convertible. Now that this striking convertible is parked in his garage, he proudly divulged that “It has enhanced my appreciation for owning one. And thinking about the history that was being made back then, and the music, particularly Motown, every time I drive my Corvair it’s like going back in a time machine that’s filled with many happy memories.”
Total production of Monza convertibles for the 1964 model year reached 31,045 examples out of a total Corvair output of 207,114 units; it had a base price of $2,814.50. When purchased by its original owner, this Monza was ordered with a four-speed transmission, pushbutton radio, whitewall tires, a padded dashtop, spare wheel lock and the Comfort & Convenience Group, pushing the final price, inclusive of taxes and fees, to $3,299.46.
With Tony being this Monza’s third owner, the previous owner fitted a dual exhaust system and an original-looking radio upgraded to a cassette player. Other than a repaint in the original Ember Red color and a new carpet set, this Monza has never been fully restored or had anything major replaced. Even its inviting white vinyl upholstery is original to the car.
When he began his search in 2010 for a 1964 Monza convertible, Tony visited the website of Clark’s Corvair Parts and found this car listed for sale in nearby Newtown, Connecticut. Because the 1964 model was the last of the first-generation Corvairs and featured many mechanical changes and upgrades that made it the best of the early models, it’s easy to see why Tony wanted to own this specific model. He exclaimed: “1964 Corvairs incorporated major mechanical improvements including the engine enlarged to 164 cubic inches, a transverse spring added in the rear, an anti-roll bar at the front, cooling fins for the rear brake drums, and the much-improved rear air grille.”
Its solid condition aside, the Monza’s color combination was another reason why Tony bought it. “It’s beautiful; my favorite color combination, including the red and white steering wheel. The restoration work was done well and accurately, and the white top and boot were brand new. Included in the purchase were the car’s original bill of sale, original owner’s manual, and documentation of the restoration work done. It was obvious that this Corvair was well taken care of and loved.”
Tony adds about 800 miles to his Monza’s odometer every year. Driven 86,000 miles since new, Tony almost always drives with the top down, enjoying the nearby hilly, curvy roads of the scenic Hudson River Valley.
“Fun, fun, fun!” was Tony’s short reply when asked what it’s like to drive his Corvair Monza. “It’s a driver’s car; smooth and responsive. It rides well and is very comfortable. – takes curves nice and flat. The steering is easy and slow just as it was back in the day unless one ordered the quick-steer option. On the highway, I am comfortable cruising at 50-65 MPH but prefer the ride at 40-50 MPH.”
Tony went on to tell us: “The 110 engine and four-speed gearbox are a nicely paired combination. It has no trouble keeping up with modern day traffic or moving out when the traffic light turns green; I particularly like the way my Monza pulls out in third gear. But I never press for more than a 54-year-old car is ready to give. It’s like riding an old horse; be gentle, kind and attentive and it will likely be returned to you in kindness.”
Regarding first-generation Corvair’s interior layout, Tony remarked that he prefers the early-style dashboard to the later 1965-’69 models. “The early style Corvair dash, especially when padded, is in my opinion one of the most welcoming I have ever encountered. It invites you into the cabin. I was disappointed with the late-style dash because it has no warmth or personality.”
What I like most about this Corvair’s exterior is that it has a boxy, simple design, and I like the belt line, too. Folks at car shows have commented on what a happy looking car it is. It is a happy car. . . Fun, Fun, Fun!
Corvair ownership is addicting, as you just can’t own one. They’re fun to drive, easy to work on, extremely reliable, and are backed by a large supply of quality reproduction parts.