1963 Chevrolet 327/340hp Split Window Coupe

327ci OHV V8 engine
Single Carter Four-Barrel Carburetor
340bhp at 6,000rpm
5-Speed Tremec Manual Transmission (see text)
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes (see text)

*Desirable 'Split Window' coupe
*Early production example
*Recently complete restoration
*Subject of numerous driving and tractability improvements

THE C2 CORVETTE

To say that the Sting Ray's arrival for 1963 caused a sensation would be grossly understating its impact on the North American sports car market. Such was its runaway success that the St Louis factory hired a second shift but still could not build cars fast enough to meet demand.

Designed by General Motors' Art & Colour Studio chief Bill Mitchell, the new Corvette featured radical styling pioneered on Mitchell's successful Stingray sports-racer penned by the talented young stylist Larry Shinoda. For the first time there was a Gran Turismo coupe in the range. Controversial at the time, the coupe's divided rear screen would last for one year only; many cars were subsequently converted to one-piece glass, making the survivors with this feature the most collectible of all 1963-67 Corvettes. Other features included hidden headlamps and in keeping with Corvette tradition the panels were made from fiberglass.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

A split-window Corvette Coupe is one of the most desirable Sting Rays around. The Corvette was produced on December 12, 1962 and was retailed new by Bud Classon Chevrolet in Adrian, Michigan. Finished in Riverside Red over black vinyl, it was no doubt a rare sight when it left the dealership as one of the early production Split Windows.

The early history of this example is not recorded. It was acquired by the consignor in 2015 and was restored and uprated last year. A correct-type 327/340bhp V8 was found and installed, mated to a Tremec 5-speed manual for greater tractability and sidepipes for extra performance and good looks. Handling was improved with a rebuilt rear end and the addition of Global West coil over suspension at all four corners—with adjustable height units up front, while stopping power was abetted by uprated four-wheel ventilated Wilwood disc brakes connected to a dual reservoir system. Putting all the power down are REV Classic Series 17 inch chrome rims shod in fresh radial tires. Even the fliptop headlight system was rebuilt. Meanwhile the car was repainted, the interior restored with leather seats, and the chrome was redone. The cherry on top is an AM/FM/Bluetooth stereo to blast the tune—or podcasts if that is your thing.

Only recently finished, this built-to-drive Split Window is ready to burn rubber with the new owner. Documented by its NCRS build report and restoration receipts, this comfortable rocket is perfect for tours, Sunday drives, or local shows.