Here we have one of the most sought after Corvairs. 1964 was the third year of Spyder production and the first year for it to be designated as it's own model and not just an option package for the Monza. Also, 64 saw suspension improvements with the addition of the transverse leaf spring. 1964 has been said to be the best year for the early model Corvairs. Also, the last year it would use the 'Spyder' designation.
This particular car is very in keeping with it's original build. Born a Spyder (Not a clone like so many.), this car has the 06 in the VIN to prove it's provenance as well as the data plate coding to back it up as well. Also, this car was originally Ember Red in color which it still is today, although you are looking at an older repaint. According to the engine block code, the engine is from a 1962 turbocharged car. Code YR. a 64 would be YM. So you can see we did our homework on this one.
The body is extremely straight with very little signs of any previous work done. Trunk compartment is perfect with no previous welding or patching. Undercarriage was sanded and painted. No problems there either. I doubt very much this car was ever subjected to harsh weather.
A LOT of time and money has been spent on this car just in the past year. The list is long and we have receipts to back it all up. Just a sample of what's been done...
- New white soft top.
- New repro seat covers
- New seat foam
- New door panels
- New int 1/4 panels
- New carpet
- New sill plates
- Rebuilt carburator
- Fuel pump
- Distributor
- Full tune-up
- All brake lines
- Brake cylinders
- Chrome fuel lines
- Battery
- Tires
- Push rod tubes & seals
Most everything purchased as exact reproduction replacements from Clark's Corvair Parts. No expense spared.
All being said, the car still could use and deserves to be brought to the finish line. The original padded dash pad is cracked and needs replacement (Repros available from Clark's.). The fuel, temp and manifold pressure gauges do not work and have not been investigated. The original AM radio does not power up. Although the carb is a fresh rebuild, the idle can be a little wonky and could use adjustment. The paint as I mentioned is older and could be mostly brought back with a good cut and correction but is very serviceable as is. The car starts up and runs well. Goes into gear with a decent clutch. Brakes and steers well and the turbo works. It doesn't even leak any oil Just expect the car to need some fine tuning as you start driving it. These cars are very quirky and can be testy at times, especially the turbo models such as this. You should be mechanically inclined, want to learn or have a close friend that is familiar with these cars. Your average mechanic wont' touch it. Ask me how I know.
These are fantastic cars with an amazing and friendly group of followers with clubs and chapters all over the country. Parts availability is terrific and they actually are pretty basic to work on. Just know what you are getting into. The same could be said of the vintage air cooled VW's.
Check out the gallery of photos and feel free to ask any questions. I also have a full YouTube walk around video you can view that is attached here.
