1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window Coupe 327/340 4-Speed

Description

In 1963, the stars aligned for the Corvette split-window coupe — and it became one of the world’s most revered classics. As the first C2-generation Vette, it wore a seductive body, sliced through corners with an all-new suspension, and was powered by stout 327s in various states of tune. But it was the coupe’s dual rear window design that made this car a legend.

Zora Arkus-Duntov’s chassis was designed for strength and a low center of gravity. That sturdy foundation was complemented with a fully independent suspension and capable brakes. And four engine options connected to either manual or automatic transmissions provided the power — with the 340-horsepower L76 reigning as the top carbureted 327.

Sending those ponies through a four-speed manual resulted in high-5-second 0–60 mph runs. However, testers were most impressed with the new IRS. Road & Track exclaimed, “In a word, the new Sting Ray sticks! Whether you slam the car through an S-bend at 85 or pop the clutch at 5000 rpm at the drag strip, the result is the same—great gripping gobs of traction.”

This example left the St. Louis factory finished in Tuxedo Black, along with red upholstery that has since been changed to black. It was optioned with the carbureted factory-rated 340-horsepower L76 327 backed by a four-speed manual transmission. And it features bucket seats, a sport instrument cluster, and air conditioning components for comfortable cruising.

This 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window Coupe is now offered on dealer consignment with manufacturer’s literature and a clean Florida title in the owner’s name.

Highlights

• Offered from Gateway Classic Cars of Orlando

• One-year-only ’63 split-window Corvette Sting Ray

• 327ci L76 Chevrolet V8 factory rated when new at 340 hp

• 4-speed manual transmission

• Finished in Tuxedo Black with reupholstered black vinyl interior

• Air conditioning components

Factory Equipment

• Split-window coupe styling

• 15” wheels with spinner hubcaps and whitewall tires

• Four wheel drum brakes

• Four wheel independent suspension with coil spring front, three-link rear design

• The chassis number (30837S104279) decodes as:

  • 3 – 1963

  • 08 – Corvette

  • 37 – 2 Door Coupe

  • S – St. Louis, Missouri assembly plant

  • 104279 – Sequential production number

• The trim tag decodes as:

  • D2 – Second week of December 1962 build date

  • 63-837 – 1963 Coupe

  • 2193 – Body production number

  • 490C – Red vinyl trim (now black)

  • 900A – Tuxedo Black paint

Modifications

• Aftermarket air conditioning

• Hurst shifter handle

• Aftermarket head unit and speakers

Known Imperfections

• Images detailing the condition of the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe are presented in the gallery

• Faded carpeting

• Older tires

Ownership History

This 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe is offered from Gateway Classic Cars of Orlando

Included Items

• Manufacturer’s literature