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The Chevrolet Corvair Monza GT (Coupe) was presented together with the Monza SS (Spyder) in early 1963. Although both cars were based on the Corvair drive train, the GT had its engine layout turned around by 180 degrees, making it a real mid-engined sportscar, while the SS had the standard Corvair layout.
Both cars were designed by Larry Shinoda and Tony Lapine, but inspiration was also drawn from the Bertone designed Testudo. This is for instance reflected in the design of the GT doors, that were actually a front hinged canopy that extended into the B-style. Also the rear engine cover hinged at the rear. The engines used were standard flat sixes, although the GT had a two carb-layout while the SS had four Carburetors.
Although the SS came very close to series production, both cars ended up as concepts only, not unlikely also because of the tainted reputation of the Corvair. Shown here is the GT, at the GM's Heritage Center in Detroit.
The engine used was a standard Corvair 145 cu in (2,380 cc) 102 hp (76 kW), flat six with two carburetors. Unlike the production Corvair, the GT engine was mounted ahead of the transaxle, turned around 180 degrees and mounted as a mid-engine layout. The chassis was on a 92 in (2,337 mm) wheelbase, 16 inches (406 mm) shorter than production cars. The overall dimensions were similarly reduced with a length of 165 in (4,191.0 mm), and a height of 42 inches (1,067 mm), creating a small but well-proportioned sports car.
Besides its streamlined appearance, the Monza GT had innovative features, including magnesium-alloy wheels, 4-wheel disc brakes, and fixed seats with adjustable pedals. These features would eventually turn up in production cars, years later.
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