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The 1963 Chevrolet Bel Air represented a solid and stylish entry in the full-size American sedan market, offering a blend of practicality and understated charm. This particular example, a two-door sedan, elevates its appeal with a desirable four-speed manual transmission paired with a reliable 283ci V8 engine. Finished in a pleasing blue with a contrasting white roof over a blue vinyl and cloth interior, this Bel Air has been recently serviced and is ready for its next custodian. Purchased by the seller in 2023 out of North Carolina, recent maintenance includes the replacement of the idler and pitman arms and ball joints. This classic cruiser is now offered with its original owner’s manual, a protection plan booklet, a 1963 Chevrolet paint color guide, and a clean Massachusetts title in the seller’s name.
Timeless 60s Styling: Originally finished in the elegant combination of Silver Blue with a white roof, this Bel Air received a repaint around 2017, retaining its classic two-tone aesthetic. Exterior features include bright chrome bumpers, distinctive quad headlights and taillights, practical dual side mirrors, eye-catching bright body-side spears, and prominent Bel Air badging. Adding a touch of custom flair are the rear side exit exhaust pipes.
Engaging Performance with Manual Control: Under the hood resides a robust 283 cubic inch Turbo-Fire V8 engine. Classic V8 Power with Driver Involvement: This dependable V8 has been enhanced with a Winters foundry aluminum intake manifold and a Holley four-barrel carburetor, potentially offering improved breathing and performance. A dual exhaust system provides a classic V8 rumble. Power is channeled to the rear wheels through a sought-after four-speed manual transmission, offering a more engaging and direct driving experience compared to the automatic options of the era.
Comfortable and Functional Interior: The cabin of this Bel Air features comfortable bench seats trimmed in blue vinyl with patterned blue cloth inserts, providing a pleasant and period-correct ambiance. The color-coordinated dash pad, door panels, headliner, and carpeting create a cohesive interior environment. Practical appointments include front lap belts, a locking glovebox, and durable blue rubber floor mats. The floor shifter clearly indicates the presence of the engaging manual transmission.
Driver-Oriented Instrumentation: Behind the two-spoke steering wheel, which features a chrome semi-circular horn ring and a Bel Air center cap, sits a 120-mph horizontal-sweep speedometer, along with a fuel-level gauge. A tachometer mounted in a nacelle above the steering column provides the driver with engine speed information. The five-digit odometer shows 95,000 miles, with approximately 900 added by the seller. It is noted that the acrylic speedometer lens is cracked, and the right turn signal switch does not consistently hold.
Upgraded Intake and Exhaust: The 283ci V8 benefits from the addition of a Winters foundry aluminum intake manifold and a Holley four-barrel carburetor, which can improve airflow and potentially increase power output. A dual-snorkel air cleaner cover and ribbed aluminum valve covers add a touch of aftermarket style under the hood. The dual exhaust system not only enhances the engine’s sound but may also contribute to improved performance. The oil was recently changed in preparation for the sale, indicating attention to basic maintenance.
Solid Foundation with Recent Service: The car rides on body-color 15-inch steel wheels fitted with chrome bowtie-branded hubcaps with white centers and wrapped in 225/75 Cooper Trendsetter SE tires. Equipped with power-assisted drum brakes at all four corners, it offers reasonable stopping power for its era. Recent service under the current ownership included the replacement of the idler and pitman arms and the ball joints, addressing common wear items in the steering and suspension systems. Corrosion is noted on some underbody components, as detailed in the gallery photos.
Decoding the Fisher Body Tag: The Fisher body tag provides valuable information about the car’s original specifications: “01E” indicates a production date in the fifth week of January, “Style 63-1611” denotes a 1963 Bel Air two-door sedan, “Body AT 1253” signifies assembly in Atlanta, Georgia, with a specific body sequence number, “Trim 839” indicates blue cloth and vinyl upholstery, and “Paint 959” confirms the original Silver Blue paint with a white roof.
Summary:
- Powered by a 283ci V8 engine.
- Equipped with a desirable four-speed manual transmission.
- Finished in blue with a white roof over a blue interior.
- Features power-assisted brakes and dual exhaust.
- Upgraded with a Winters aluminum intake and Holley four-barrel carburetor.
- Recent service includes replacement of idler and pitman arms and ball joints.
- Accompanied by owner’s manual, protection plan booklet, and paint color guide.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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