How much horsepower does a 1964 Corvair have?
The base 1964 Chevrolet Corvair produced about 95 horsepower from its air‑cooled flat‑six engine, while turbocharged variants and performance trims could push output to around 150 horsepower. Exact figures vary by trim and whether the engine is stock or modified.
Overview of the 1964 lineup
The 1964 Corvair used a rear‑mounted, air‑cooled flat‑six engine displacing roughly 2.3 liters (145 cubic inches). Power ratings for that model year were published using SAE net figures, which are typically lower than earlier gross ratings.
Below are the main engine variants and their horsepower figures as typically cited for the 1964 lineup.
- Base 1964 Corvair with the standard 2.3 L flat‑six: about 95 horsepower (SAE net).
- Turbocharged variants (Monza/Spyder/Corsa trims that offered forced induction): about 150 horsepower (SAE net).
Note: Some sources differentiate trim levels, and aftermarket or modified engines may yield different outputs. The 1964 shift to SAE net ratings helps explain why these numbers are lower than some earlier brochures’ gross figures.
Context and driving experience
Horsepower is only part of the picture. The Corvair’s weight distribution, suspension, and rear‑engine layout gave it a distinctive handling character, while turbocharged models offered noticeably quicker acceleration, especially at highway speeds or when passing.
Why the numbers matter for collectors
For enthusiasts and collectors, the distinction between a 95‑hp base model and a roughly 150‑hp turbo version helps identify trim, potential value, and restoration goals. Verifying the engine type and rating source remains important when assessing a 1964 Corvair’s originality.
Bottom line
In summary, the 1964 Corvair’s standard engine produced about 95 horsepower, with turbocharged configurations delivering around 150 horsepower, depending on trim and condition.
Summary
The 1964 Corvair offered a modest base output of approximately 95 hp, while turbocharged variants could reach roughly 150 hp. When evaluating a specific car, check the exact trim and verify whether the rating is SAE net, as this affects how the horsepower is reported.
What engine is in a 1964 Corvair?
The Chevrolet Turbo-Air 6 is a flat-six air-cooled automobile engine developed by General Motors (GM) in the late 1950s for use in the rear-engined Chevrolet Corvair of the 1960s. It was used in the entire Corvair line, as well as a wide variety of other applications.
What is a 1964 Corvair worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $8,100 for a 1964 Chevrolet Corvair Monza in good condition with average spec.
How much horsepower does a 1964 327 engine have?
365 hp
The engine was updated in 1964, upping the power to 365 hp for the top-dog 1964 Corvette 327 Engine. A 1963 L76 is not the same as the 64-up L76. This is the casting number on the driver-side rear of the block.
What year did Corvair have the most horsepower?
1965
Power peaked with the 1965–66 turbocharged 180 hp (134 kW; 182 PS) Corsa engine option.
