Corvairs In The Jungle Of Death

This is a Chevrolet Corvair, and it sits here, in the middle of the Darien jungle, less than a mile away from Panama’s border with Colombia. It’s been here for exactly 60 years, with trekkers brave enough to cross the inhospitable Darien Gap wondering what an American made, compact four-door sedan is doing rotting away between North and South America. Keep reading to find out how and why and how this particular red Corvair got into the jungle of Panama. It’s a story of sheer willpower, stubbornness, and a bit of craziness, all wrapped up in an expedition that took twelve men and their six completely unprepared cars and trucks across the treacherous Darien Gap. A place where there are no roads, no bridges, and slim chances of survival.

It all started in 1959, when the first production-ready Chevrolet Corvair was presented to the American public. It was something new and different – a compact car with a rear-mounted, air-cooled flat-six engine, independent suspension all-around, and a fresh design. It was an exciting achievement, and it quickly got the attention of the press… read more >