Dec 17, 2023  •  For Sale  •  10 Comments

Original L76/4-Speed: 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split Window Coupe

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The seller is a master of understatement, describing this 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split Window Coupe as “a nice driver.” Many readers will view it as more than that because it is a desirable classic with no apparent needs. It has generated significant interest since the seller listed the Coupe here on eBay in Mooresville, North Carolina. Nineteen bids have pushed the price beyond the reserve to $91,000. That means a new home is only days away for this stunning beauty.

After a stumbling start that saw Chevrolet consider axing the program, the C1 Corvette managed to cement its place in the American automotive landscape. However, the introduction of the C2 in 1963 was a game-changer. It brought more performance options, while the Coupe variant made the ‘Vette a viable all-weather daily driver. The Split Window variant was a one-year-only model, and while the strip down the rear window center didn’t find favor with some owners in 1963, they have become one of the most highly sought-after Corvette models in the classic market. This one is presented nicely in Code 912 Silver Blue. The seller uses the word “original” in their description, but whether this refers to the paint or that the car received a cosmetic refresh in its correct paint shade is unclear. It reflects its surroundings nicely, with no significant flaws or defects visible in the paint or fiberglass. There is no mention of rust, and the lack of visible surface corrosion across various areas is a positive sign for potential buyers. The chrome and glass are easily acceptable for a driver-grade vehicle, while the original hubcaps and narrow whitewalls add the ideal finishing touch to the exterior.

If the Corvette’s presentation makes a positive impression, its numbers-matching status continues that trend. It features the L76 version of the 327ci V8, producing 340hp and 344 ft/lbs of torque. Those ponies feed to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission, with this combination confirming the car’s performance credentials. The journey down the ¼-mile should take 14.3 seconds while keeping the pedal to the metal will see the small-block run out of breath at 139mph. The listing indicates an odometer reading of 76,000 miles, although whether the figure is genuine is unclear. The Coupe rolls on new tires, and while not expressly stated, it appears this is a turnkey classic where the winning bidder could fly in and drive it home.

We must delve into this Corvette’s interior to find anything worth criticizing. However, any faults inside this classic are relatively minor. The carpet is slightly faded, and the driver’s seatcover exhibits minor wear and stretching. However, if the Blue trim and upholstery are original, they are another aspect of this classic that is easily acceptable for a driver-grade vehicle. The only other flaw worth mentioning is the discolored armrest assemblies on both doors. However, with high-quality reproductions available for under $100 each, addressing that fault won’t break the bank.

Buyer interest in this 1963 Corvette Split Window Coupe has been high, and it is easy to see why. It presents nicely for a high-end driver, while its original drivetrain combination promises exhilarating performance. It has no apparent needs, but lifting its appearance to a higher level would be straightforward. The current bid level is unsurprising, and with time remaining in this auction, I believe the price will comfortably climb into six-figure territory. That isn’t cheap, but would you consider biting the bullet and making a play for this gem? You would struggle to park it under the tree, but it could be a wonderful Christmas gift to yourself. It’s a lovely thought.

Comments

  1. Al camino
    Dec 17, 2023 at 1:02pm

    Owning a sw viper red and owned a silver one,this blue to me just doesn’t look good! Imo

    Like 1
  2. Poppy
    Dec 17, 2023 at 7:51pm

    This is the same seller as the white ’63 posted more recently. Location is NC but the seller’s phone number has an Ohio area code.

    Like 1
  3. Terry
    Dec 17, 2023 at 10:01pm

    True story: Back in the 80’s, while in the AF, there was a “lemon lot” on our base where one could park a car – stick a price on the glass – and pass it along. Passing by that spot one day an immaculate light blue ’63 coupe caught my attention and for $10K OBO I could have made a new home for it. My wife didn’t quite agree it would really fit our need, and that was that. Not long after, we spent 10K on a new Ford Tempo. We are still happily married.

    Like 22
  4. Guardstang
    Dec 18, 2023 at 9:08am

    As iconic the split window year is I’d rather have a later model year with disc brakes

    Like 1
    • Ashtray
      Dec 18, 2023 at 9:51am

      I see oil leaks underneath the vehicle where it has been sitting.
      I would hope a 100k dollar vehicle, perhaps even more, would not leak anything?
      That’s just my oponion!

      Like 3
      • Vette VanDerLeest
        Dec 18, 2023 at 12:02pm

        My & my dad’s fav year besides 1st year they were made🥰
        But like the ‘68 Firebird I had…
        Boring blue isn’t a selling point.
        Red’68 on this site makes ya wanna say ahhhh😍

        Like 0
      • Jon B Koonce
        Jan 16, 2024 at 4:05pm

        Could just be water from recently being washed

        Like 0
    • Al camino
      Dec 18, 2023 at 9:52am

      Put em on then if you like disk brakes,they only come out two years later,and save all the old parts for the picky people but if you ever drove one without you would want them on

      Like 2
  5. Cobraboy
    Dec 18, 2023 at 10:05am

    My dad had Chevy, Ford, and Rambler dealerships when the ’63 Corvettes came out. The first one on his lot was exactly like this one. I will never forget the awe that my 11-year old self felt when he brought it home and took me for a fast ride.

    Like 6
  6. PRA4SNW PRA4SNWMember
    Dec 22, 2023 at 8:00pm

    SOLD for $105,100.

    Like 0

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