Re: 1965 Corvair Crown
Have had a few but friend Warren in Indiana is the real expert. Did it start out as a Corsa ? 500+ hp is a lot to put through a stock gearbox which is really a Saginaw 4 speed but is more a factor of how you shift than anything, is quite a bit of flex in the shifter linkage. Clutch is critical since stock tends to hang at high revs, I like a CenterForce.
275/327 would have started as a double hump 4 bbl and probably the best iron engine Chevvy made, '68 block got the bigger bearings & is probably the best to start with. Crown conversion is one of the best (and oldest). As mentioned the radiator (and AC condenser) usually must go in front. Can breathe from the bottom but usually need a duct in the lid to let the air out.
Last 'vair I had was a Lemonwood 'vert with a black interior, really pretty car.
Would not be surprised that people with Crossfires would also have Corvairs and Fieros.