In response to consumer advocate Ralph Nader's Unsafe at Any Speed, Chevrolet began developing a front-engine, front-wheel drive version of the Corvair; GM design chief Bill Mitchell repurposed a 1962 design project by moving the transaxle to the rear, resulting in a mid-engine Corvair derivative.

[1] Under Mitchell's direction, the Corvair Monza GT coupe had been designed by Larry Shinoda and Tony Lapine, borrowing from the Bertone-designed Testudo concept car.

Unlike the production rear-engine Corvair, the GT engine was mounted ahead of the transaxle, resulting in a mid-engine layout.

[3] Besides its streamlined appearance, the Monza GT had innovative features, including magnesium-alloy wheels, 4-wheel disc brakes, 4-wand fixed seats with adjustable pedals.

[4] Introduced to the public in June 1962 at Elkhart Lake at a Sports Car Club of America race for A- and B-production classes, the Corvair Monza GT was an instant hit with enthusiasts.

[1] Both the Monza GT and SS ended up as concepts only, tied partly to the fortunes of the Corvair, which suffered after the vehicle was declared unsafe by Nader.