This 1961 Chevrolet Corvair Lakewood 700 custom is the concept of Corvair enthusiast Don Magas. Utilizing his knowledge of over 50 years of Corvair experience he set out to build an improved wagon with subtle modifications throughout, creating the best Corvair model. Mr. Magas began with a 1961 Lakewood station wagon he found listed online for sale in California. The car had sat in the desert for nearly 20 years. Mr. Magas purchased the car, shipping it back to his home state of Pennsylvania.

Mr. Magas began by having the body media blasted. Once completed, it was shipped to Arone Restorations; there, the floors were replaced, bodywork fixed, and the stainless trim pieces were restored. The Corvair was painted a shade similar to a yellow offered in period. The multi-step process included the use of U-Tech epoxy primer, Sikkens Autobase Plus, and two coats of Auto Clear. Following the paint application it was wet sanded, compounded, and polished using 3M products.

The stock 80-horsepower engine was upgraded to a 110-horsepower 164-cubic-inch unit rebuilt and balanced by the Corvair Range in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Additional engine work included an upgraded to electronic ignition and a trombone-style dual exhaust.

A number of suspension modifications were made; most notably, the front lower control arms were upgraded to allow the instillation of a factory anti-roll bar. Further upgrades were made to allow for a 1964-spec transverse leaf spring, which supplements the coils.

The interior is trimmed in tan Naugahyde and features a number of subtle style changes. Mr. Magas carefully selected the right parts to get the desired look and feel, adding 1961 Monza door panel trim, seat bottom tufting inspired by the 1966 Corvair, backrest tufting inspired by the 1963 models, as well as 1964 armrests. The carpet is a Daytona-style weave. Instruments are Auto-Meter electronic units set into a custom panel. Additional interior features include a dash clock and push-button radio.