Chevrolet introduced the C2 Corvette in 1963, and although it featured many changes below the skin, it was the inclusion for the first time of a Coupe variant that captured the public’s attention. The one-year-only Split Window remains instantly recognizable, and spotless examples command prices that would make your head spin. Our feature car is one such vehicle, and faulting its presentation is virtually impossible. It needs a new home, with the seller listing it here on eBay in Richmond, Kentucky. Bidding is short of the reserve at $127,600, although there is a BIN option of $157,500 for those wishing to bypass the auction process. Barn Finder T.J. has struck gold with this beauty, so thank you for referring this amazing classic T.J.

This Corvette presents beautifully and is guaranteed to turn heads. However, the seller is candid that it received a repaint in its original Daytona Blue about a decade ago. They utilized clear-over-base technology, which helps explains why it looks like you could sink into the finish. It carries all the hallmarks of a classic that has led a sheltered existence, with seemingly flawless paint and fiberglass. The seller says there are a couple of paint chips, but they are too tiny to show in the supplied photos. This car’s beauty is more than skin deep, with the underside shots revealing a frame that you could eat off. Dark colors can look somber if there is nothing providing contrast, but this ‘Vette delivers with chrome and trim that meets the seller’s description of wearing a mirror finish. The glass is spotless, and the factory wheel trims exhibit no evidence of damage.

The tidy presentation continues when we examine this Corvette’s interior. It is trimmed in Dark Blue vinyl, showing no signs of wear or stress. The dash looks excellent, as does the carpet. I can spot an orphan aftermarket switch below the dash, but there are no other additions. It isn’t loaded with extras, but the original owner spent $174.35 on the optional AM/FM radio to provide entertainment when (or if) they grew tired of the tune emanating from the engine bay.

Buyers could select from several versions of the legendary 327ci V8 to power their new ’63 Corvette, but the L76 version was probably the bargain buy at $107.60. It lifted power from the entry-level 250hp to a ground-pounding 340hp. When coupled to the four-speed manual transmission, as we find in this car, it could demolish the ¼-mile in 14.3 seconds before hitting a top speed of 139mph. The L84 “fuelie” brought an additional 20hp to the party but added $322.80 beyond the L76’s price. It was a significant outlay in 1963, and it probably helped explain why only 2,610 buyers splashed the cash on a motor that improved the figures to 14 seconds and 144mph. From a “bang for your buck” perspective, it didn’t make sense to many. The seller indicates this Corvette’s drivetrain is numbers-matching. They say the L76 holds excellent oil pressure, and the car runs and drives well. It has a claimed 43,000 miles on the clock, but they don’t mention verifying evidence.

Sales figures for the final year of the C1 Corvette and the first for the C2 are fascinating. The company sold 14,531 Corvettes in 1962, representing a sales record for a badge that was exclusively a Convertible. Sales rose to an impressive 21,513 in 1963, and 10,594 were the Coupe variant. It makes me ponder how many of those buyers would have splashed their cash on a ‘Vette if it was still only offered in drop-top form. Considering this car’s condition and specifications, recent sales results suggest the BIN figure is realistic. It has already attracted seventeen bids, and you have to wonder whether one of those people will throw caution to the wind and hit the button. If you were in that position, would you consider that strategy?