1964 Rambler Classic w 199?

If you're referring to the one on Milwaukee/Racine Craigslist, that has a 196 cast iron motor in it, but it's listed as a 199.

You are right that no 1964 Ramblers came with a 199. The standard engine would have been 196 cast iron; the aluminum 196 was available.

A late-build Classic could have had a 232, and then someone could have changed it for a 199 (essentially the same motor).

Having said that, a 199 would be a much-preferred engine to a 196 (much more modern, easy to get parts for.) But a 196, well cared for, and not driven too hard can move the car around fine.

I think that wagon is a nice project, probably a bit optimistic on price.

that's actually a knowledgeable question, you're a heck of a newbie :-)

the 195.6 ohv engine would be working very hard in a classic wagon, and that transmission is definitely not up to the task. if it's lasted this long someone's done something right. that combo is adequate in the much smaller american, but an hour "ordinary" highway speeds (which didnt exist then) will be pushing it.

the cooling system is obvious, and with care, you can make that right, it's not rocket science, just care, and components in good condition and all that. but engine oiling is severely taxed at sustained speeds. you don't have to take my word for it; screw an electric temperature sender into the far end oil gallery (1/8" NPT), a Stewart Warner sensor will not protrude enough to block flow. i got 230F there after 10 miles of 60 or 65 mph. 230 is OK but that's not much of a load, and oil temp will lower viscosity and threatening damage to bearings. and in my lightened American. i would love it if someone else could measure oil temps at speed, the data would be useful to us all.

a 63 classic wagon weighs 3200 lbs (i weighed one on a truck scale). the T96 is undersized too.

if you keep that in mind i'm sure you can make it go and stay reliable. the motor can be made reliable no problem, just can't get as casual abount maintenance as you can with the 232 series.

i wouldn't haul any trailers with that transmission! lol.