1963 Chevrolet Corvette

Iconic one-year-only split-window coupe
Desirable 340-HP, 327-cubic-inch V-8 engine
Equipped with Muncie four-speed transmission
Knock-off styled wheels with Gold Stripe tires
Features power windows

When Chevrolet introduced the Corvette in 1953, hardcore motorsport enthusiasts rejoiced at the idea of a home-grown sports car. But soon, the Corvette became somewhat compromised as GM prioritized style over outright performance to boost sales. Even as sales struggled and GM threatened to pull the plug on the program, plans for a more focused, purposeful Corvette began as early as 1957. It took considerable effort by a passionate team of engineers led by Zora Arkus-Duntov to convince the GM board to allow the program to continue, but thankfully, the Corvette received a stay of execution.

In 1963, Chevrolet introduced a completely new second-generation Corvette. Essential elements of the experimental Q-Corvette and Sting Ray dream car combined to form the most sophisticated and stylish Corvette yet. Duntov and his team revolutionized the Corvette, ditching its family sedan underpinnings once and for all and finally giving GM a proper, no-excuses sports car to take on the Europeans. The new purpose-built chassis featured four-wheel independent suspension, big drum brakes (discs followed soon after), and various iterations of the 327-cubic-inch small-block V-8 ranging from the 250-horsepower base engine to an impressive 360-horsepower version with the optional L-84 package, comprised of a Duntov camshaft, solid lifters, and RochesterRam Jet mechanical fuel injection. Atop the advanced chassis sat a stunning new body designed by the great Larry Shinoda under the direction of GM design boss Bill Mitchell. The design set the automotive world alight with its gorgeous boat-tail fastback roofline, rear split window, pronounced fender bulges, and an aggressive, purposeful stance. The C2 Corvette remains one of the most iconic and beloved American car designs.

This highly desirable 1963 Corvette Split-Window Coupe is equipped with the high-performance, 327-cubic-inch, RE-code 340-HP engine with Carter four-barrel carburetor. This is the highest horsepower engine offered before the 360-HP fuel-injected engine. Many enthusiasts prefer the simple-to-tune and user friendly 340-HP cars over the sometimes fickle and complex fuel-injected cars, making this car highly desirable for those who enjoy driving their Corvettes.

The tidy engine bay is authentically detailed and accurate to the period, including the correct 340-HP air cleaner. It runs and drives well, and with 340 horsepower on tap, a factory 3.70 limited-slip rear differential, and a Muncie four-speed gearbox, punchy performance off the line and instant acceleration in all four gears are assured.

Finished elegantly in Tuxedo Black, this Corvette is authentically detailed with correct badges, body fittings, and trim. The body fit is excellent, and the finish quality is excellent overall, with a glossy finish. Rolling stock consists of correct-style knock-off styled wheels fitted with 7.75 Gold Line-15-inch BFGoodrich tires that stand out against the deep black body color. As with the bodywork, the interior is in its original specifications with correct saddle vinyl upholstery, saddle carpets, and proper fittings, including the three-spoke woodgrain steering wheel, T-handle four-speed shifter with black gear-shift knob, optional power windows and early model Delco signal-seeking radio. The soft trim and interior fittings are in excellent condition throughout the cockpit.

The Split Windowrepresents the ultimate Corvette for many enthusiasts and collectors, combining rarity, beauty, and uncompromised performance. This example, in striking Tuxedo Black and fitted with the ultra desirable 340-horsepower engine and four-speed manual transmission, is a quintessential American icon.