Open To Offers: 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split Window Coupe
It is sometimes said that hope springs eternal. A person can wish for something, but whether or not they receive it can depend on fate. That brings us to this 1963 Chevrolet Corvette. The ’63 Split Window Coupe is one of America’s most iconic vehicles and spotless examples command prices that leave you breathless. This one appears original, but from there, the water becomes muddy. The limited photos tell us little, and the listing tells us less. However, it makes it clear that although the owner specifies a price of $50,000 in the header, what they seek is offers above that figure. They clarify this further by stating they are looking for a sale price closer to $100,000. The Corvette is located in Wilmington, Delaware, and is listed here on Craigslist. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for locating this classic.
This older shot and the first in this article are the only exterior photos supplied by the seller. The first thing I would say is that if an owner expects a six-figure price for any classic car, providing decent information and photos is paramount if they wish to generate genuine interest. Although I’m unwilling to bet my house on it, I think this Corvette originally wore attractive Ermine White paint. It looks like there’s now a fair primer coating, suggesting it is a stalled project. It is unclear how long it has hibernated, but the accumulated dust indicates the timeframe is more likely years than months. There’s little we can determine about the state of the fiberglass, frame, or birdcage. The exterior trim is an unknown quantity, but the glass looks promising.
Chevrolet hadn’t begun shoehorning their big-block V8s under the hood of the ’63 Corvette, waiting until 1965 before offering that option. All ‘Vettes from this model year featured a 327ci V8 under the hood, with power ranging from 250hp to 360hp for the range-topping and expensive fuelie. We know this car isn’t a fuelie, but it is unclear which version of the 327 occupies its engine bay. There is a decal on the valve cover, but it has lifted and folded in the critical spot that would provide a clue. However, the original owner’s decision to specify the two-speed Powerglide means that this engine is the entry-level 250hp unit or the L75 powerplant producing 300hp. We don’t know when it last ran or if the engine turns freely. So far, I can see potential buyers will have a list of questions as long as their arm requiring answers before committing their hard-earned cash to this project. If I were considering this car, I would do nothing unless the seller granted me an in-person inspection.
This Corvette’s interior appears original, with the wheel wrap being the only noticeable addition. It isn’t highly equipped, although the original owner ordered it with an AM/FM radio. It looks encouraging, with no visible upholstery issues. The center dash section around the clock looks funny, although that could be an illusion caused by the low-quality photo. The glovebox door shows damage courtesy of some stickers, but I would try carefully cleaning it before spending money on a replacement.
We’ve reached the point of considering the potential value of this 1963 Corvette Split Window Coupe. Hagerty and NADA show a massive disparity in the value of a pristine example, with Hagerty heading well into six-figure territory and NADA quoting a figure above $80,000. Recent results suggest it could top $100,000 fully restored, but that is conditional on it being numbers-matching. It is worth remembering that the Powerglide negatively impacts the potential value, leading me to wonder what you would offer for this classic.
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Comments
Sorry, but there’s not even enough information available to put this one on the “you’ve got to be kidding” award list. Primer, dirt, four pictures for over 50K?
Another I just saw one just like it on Mecum or Barrett Jackson, this isn’t even a #3 car. Not saying there is no value just wishful thinking on the sellers part.
The ol’ “I wanna run craigslist like an auction cuz I don’t wanna pay ebay fees.”
Yea a lot of things that you guys mention that make me shake my head. Wonder if he really wants to sell it?? Lists for 50 large but wants a hundred??
He could probably get a lot for it if it were presented properly. Good luck and happy motoring.
Cheers
GPC
If its on Craigslist, run away!
“Honest honey, I tried to sell it!”
Haggerty is running high on their estimates IMO. I have 5 insured with them and they call and tell me I need to increase my insurance coverage based on what they see in current resale values. They may be trending to the high side which basically increases there insurance sales but I’ve offered to sell them all mine for what they determine worth is.
I myself have had that same realization. It seems they my be over estimating the concourse condition of my car (LOL) or basing their valuation off of much more desirable cars that raise their value range.
I have a 74 Caprice 2 door I bought from the original “lil ol lady” owner 20 yrs ago for my son when he turned 16. We built a healthy 406 for it but couldn’t keep it together so it sat in the back of my shop for 15 yrs. I sold my business (auto repair) Jan this yr. So cleaned out the back. I still had the original engine sitting in the back for 20 yrs, went thru it and freshened it up, reinstalled it in its rightful place and drove the car home. My wife called Hagerty to insure it and they valued it at 17K. She asked me when I got home to which I replied “would they like 2 for that price”? She said the lady insisted that in good, not excellent condition they were bringing that. Any body interested?
Dreamer or scammer? Who knows? But for that kind of money, you can find a far better SWC.
I love a good car find but come on man, give us so real world answers on the car first. This is lacking so much info that we cound never begin to put an educated offer out there. this is a kin to swinging wildly at a Pinata and only getting healthy options vs candy!
Crappy photos with too much loopholes to jump through to maybe make a purchase of this car. There is just too many holes in this deal to avoid a scammers scheme here. Those interested BEWARE.
I am guessing this is a piece in an estate sale or the likes. the person selling it is not a “car guy” and doesnt know how the world works on this stuff. Has a price in mind because someone said it was worth this much
Never saw the outright lunacy about these split window coupes but thats just me. 50K?. Please. It’s called American Pickeritis. .
I’m a corvette guy but this one is way out there bad pictures over priced would be a great project at about 40k if the frame was good.
Everyone knows that Delaware’s sunny and ultra-dry climate naturally preserves old automobile projects.
Good thing there is an anti-theft device locked onto the steering wheel.
Bah-hah-ha-ha-ah… ha… hah. Sigh.
The worst part of that whole deal is she won’t let you see the car. It’s in another state, but she wants to get paid first then she’ll take you to the garage where the car is and then it’s your puppy I bought a lot of stuff but I’ve never done that now she’s up to 95,000