Eric Minoff
Vice President, Head of Department - US
LOT 52
1963 Chevrolet Corvette 327/300HP Sting Ray 'Split Window' Coupe Chassis no. 30837S110993 Engine no. 3110993 F03I2RD
Sold for US$188,160 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 52
1963 Chevrolet Corvette 327/300HP Sting Ray 'Split Window' Coupe
1963 Chevrolet Corvette 327/300HP Sting Ray 'Split Window' Coupe
Chassis no. 30837S110993
Engine no. 3110993 F03I2RD
Chassis no. 30837S110993
Engine no. 3110993 F03I2RD
327ci OHV V8 Engine
Single 4-Barrel Carburetor
300bhp at 5,600rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes
*Numbers matching, 4-speed manual example
*Iconic and highly-collectible Split Window Corvette
*Frame off restoration completed by marque experts
*Exquisite looks in beautiful Black on Black livery
*Excellent Corvette for rallies
THE STING RAY 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. Beneath the skin was an all-new ladder-frame chassis with independent rear suspension, the work of Chevrolet Chief Engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov, the adoption of which enabled the center of gravity to be significantly lowered, improving both roadholding and ride. 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. Other notable firsts for the '63 Corvette included optional leather upholstery, air conditioning and knock-off wheels. A little over 21,000 Sting Rays were made in 1963, the production split being roughly 50/50 coupe/convertible.
THE CAR OFFERED
The split-window Corvette Coupe is one of the most desirable Sting Rays around. This example offered was built in late November of 1963 at the St. Louis, MO plant as a 327/300hp variant. It was born in Riverside Red with Black vinyl interior. The car is equipped with a factory air conditioning system, although it is believed to be dealer installed when new. This Corvette is still equipped with its original, numbers matching 327 engine that it was born with. This carbureted model was delivered new with the desirable 4-speed manual transmission.
This example has spent many years living in the excellent California climate. The car was the recipient of a complete frame-off restoration. During the restoration, the car was changed to a very fitting Black on Black livery, a wonderful look for this body style. The car received some improvements to help aid the driving experience as well as boost the looks. A set of Italian made Borrani wire wheels with knock offs were fitted to the car wrapped in BF Goodrich rubber. This gives the car a much more exotic and sleek appearance, which really suits the car quite well. To improve ride quality, the suspension was upgraded using Bilstein shocks for a smoother, better feel for the road. Another unique addition on the car was quite a popular trend back in the 60's. The addition of the Mako Shark concept's six taillights feature in the rear was a great look, and quite the ideal period correct look. Truly a wonderful aesthetic improvement.
A superb example of an iconic and collectible Corvette. Expertly restored, finished in a wonderful color combination, this car is set to turn some heads. This split window Vette is ready to be driven, whether its to your local cruise in, or to drive in comfort on a vintage car rally, this car is a sure choice to accomplish them in style. This Corvette sounds terrific and will give its drivers an enjoyable driving experience. The car is equipped with the 300hp 'L75' engine option as well the 4-speed manual transmission. This Stingray will be accompanied by an extra set of Corvette wheels. With this combination, this is absolutely one pleasant driver. Surely a wonderful addition to any garage, with many smiles per gallon.
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