In 1965, the Chevrolet Impala claimed its throne as the king of the Chevrolet lineup, boasting annual sales that surpassed the remarkable milestone of 1 million units. This achievement marked the first time a car in the United States had reached such heights since World War II, overshadowing all other models in General Motors’ extensive fleet.
While the Impala reveled in its success, Chevrolet didn’t neglect the rest of its vehicle portfolio. In the same year, the Corvair underwent a significant makeover, receiving enhancements in equipment, engine performance, and styling. Notably, the absence of the B pillar added a touch of modernity to its appearance.
Despite its modern facelift, the Corvair maintained its focus on compact engines. Chevrolet continued to offer the Corvair with a 95-horsepower standard engine, but customers had the option to choose more powerful alternatives. The Corsa, for instance, featured a robust 180-horsepower version. The 150-horsepower unit was replaced with a more balanced 140-horsepower version, striking a harmony between fuel efficiency and performance.
Recently listed on eBay by the seller fts8888, a Corvair from this era has surfaced. The vehicle, having spent many years stored in a shed, is now seeking a new lease on life through a comprehensive restoration.
Contrary to expectations, the Corvair’s appearance is not as dire as one might assume after years in a shed. Some components have already undergone restoration, particularly the body, though a resurgence of rust requires attention. Fortunately, addressing the rust issue appears manageable.
The interior, however, demands more meticulous care. Unfortunately, the cabin is no longer entirely original, featuring different seats. Prospective buyers aspiring for factory specifications may need to find a suitable donor car, considering the need for various components, such as a turn signal lever and a speedometer.
The enticing aspect of this Corvair lies in its affordability. Priced at $2,900, the owner is open to negotiation with the “Make Offer” option. Realistically, a price around $2,500 seems plausible, especially considering the current market where projects in worse conditions often sell for $1,500 to $2,000.
With a price comparable to a MacBook Pro equipped with 36GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, choosing this Corvair as a winter project offers a unique alternative. Located in Marion Heights, Pennsylvania, potential buyers are encouraged to inspect the car in person before finalizing a purchase.
# FAQs
**Q1: Why is the 1965 Impala significant?**
A1: The Impala achieved unprecedented success in 1965, becoming the first car in the US since World War II to surpass 1 million units in annual sales, solidifying its position as the king of Chevrolet.
**Q2: What changes did the 1965 Corvair undergo?**
A2: The Corvair underwent a major makeover in 1965, receiving equipment upgrades, engine tweaks, and styling improvements, including the removal of the B pillar for a more modern look.
**Q3: What is notable about the listed Corvair?**
A3: The Corvair listed on eBay by fts8888 has spent years in a shed and is in need of restoration. While the body has seen prior restoration, rust issues and interior modifications present challenges.
**Q4: Why is the Corvair considered an affordable project?**
A4: Priced at $2,900 with room for negotiation, the Corvair offers an affordable restoration project. Given the current market, a price around $2,500 is realistic, making it an attractive option for enthusiasts.
