Chevrolet Corvair (1st generation)
Chevrolet's radical rear-engined compact that challenged the American status quo.
- Power
- 80 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 17.5 s
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$28k
About the Chevrolet Corvair
The 1960 Corvair was a revolutionary departure for Detroit, featuring a rear-mounted, air-cooled flat-six engine and independent suspension at all four corners. Designed to compete with the rising tide of European imports, it offered a low silhouette and a flat floor thanks to the absence of a transmission tunnel. While later models gained notoriety through Ralph Nader's 'Unsafe at Any Speed', the early cars are appreciated today for their unique engineering and European-influenced styling. The 1960 model is distinguished by its 'cave-in' front nose design, which was simplified in subsequent years.
Chevrolet Corvair specs
The Chevrolet Corvair produces 80 bhp (60 kW) and 169 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 17.5 seconds and has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Chevrolet |
|---|---|
| Model | Corvair |
| Generation | First generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 2.3 |
| Years | 1960–1964 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $2,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.3-litre naturally aspirated flat-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,287 cc (2.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 80 bhp (60 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 169 Nm (125 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,800 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 17.5 s |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,095 kg (2,414 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 73 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Chevrolet Corvair worth?
A typical Chevrolet Corvair is estimated to be worth $8,000 – $28,000 (about £6,000 – £21,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Chevrolet Corvair rarity in CarSpot
The Chevrolet Corvair is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Chevrolet Corvair fun facts
- The Corvair was the only mass-produced American passenger car to feature a rear-mounted, air-cooled engine.
- MotorTrend named the Corvair its 1960 Car of the Year, praising its innovative engineering and handling.
- The 1960 model year featured a unique 'concave' front-end styling that was replaced by a flat design for 1961.
