The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window remains one of the most polarizing and sought-after designs in automotive history. This specific example has been part of the same family since 1967, though it has spent the last quarter-century tucked away in storage. It presents a fascinating opportunity for a dedicated restorer to bring a dormant legend back to life. While it currently requires significant mechanical and aesthetic work, the foundational bones of this iconic C2 coupe are clearly present.
Exterior Condition and Riverside Red Roots
Originally leaving the St. Louis factory finished in Riverside Red, this fiberglass body was later refinished in white. Iconic details like the flip-up headlamps and the distinctive central spine of the split rear glass define its silhouette. The hood currently shows alignment issues, and various paint imperfections are visible across the car’s sweeping curves. Chrome bumperettes and quad tail lamps remain in place, though they would benefit from professional attention to regain their original luster.
Chassis Dynamics and Turbine Wheels
The car sits on 15-inch turbine-style wheels equipped with three-eared knock-off spinners for a classic competition look. These wheels are currently wrapped in whitewall tires that show significant dry rot from decades of sitting idle. Underneath, the C2 platform features the first fully independent suspension system ever offered on a production Corvette model. Braking is still managed by a traditional four-wheel drum setup, which was standard equipment for the 1963 model year.
Interior Wear and Cabin Layout
The cockpit features red vinyl bucket seats that provide a striking contrast to the current white exterior paint. This color-coordinated theme extends to the door panels and carpets, though the cabin shows expected signs of aging. Amenities include a factory heater, an analog clock, and an AM/FM radio located in the center stack. While the interior is largely complete, the various materials will require deep cleaning or replacement to meet modern show standards.
Instrumentation and Dashboard Details
A three-spoke steering wheel fronts a dashboard designed to resemble an aircraft cockpit with dual circular cowls. The 160-mph speedometer and high-redline tachometer hint at the performance potential this car once offered. Auxiliary gauges for oil pressure, coolant temperature, and fuel level remain in their factory positions. The five-digit odometer indicates 32,000 miles, though the total mileage of the chassis cannot be fully verified given the age.
L76 Engine Specifications and Performance
The engine bay houses a 327ci L76 V8, which was factory rated at an impressive 340 horsepower. This high-output engine features a single four-barrel carburetor and a high-lift camshaft for improved breathing at high RPMs. Interestingly, an automatic transmission was swapped in place of the original four-speed manual at some point in the past. Because the keys have been lost, the engine has not been started or tested in over twenty years. Restoring this L76 powerplant will be a primary focus for any future owner.
Summary of the Split Window Project
This 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window stands as a raw project with a compelling long-term ownership history. It retains its rare L76 engine block and several key trim pieces that are often lost over time. The car is currently offered with a clean Colorado title and decades of family stories attached to its VIN. For a collector willing to invest in a total restoration, this C2 represents the ultimate canvas. It is a rare chance to preserve a one-year-only design that helped define an entire generation.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
