This Stunning 1963 Corvette Split-Window Deserves Serious Money
Few American sports cars make collectors reach for their checkbooks quite like the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window coupe. This particular example is heading to auction with a desirable 340 hp V8, a four-speed manual transmission, and just 196 miles showing on the odo. There’s a catch, however. Those miles were accumulated after its extensive restoration, rather than over the car’s entire lifetime.
The 1963 Corvette Split-Window Is A Collector’s Dream
The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray Split-Window occupies a special place in American automotive history. Its distinctive divided rear windshield lasted just one model year before Chevrolet abandoned the design following complaints about rearward visibility. Apparently, looking spectacular wasn’t enough if drivers couldn’t see what was behind them.
Today, the 1963 Corvette Split-Window coupe remains one of the most recognizable and sought-after classic Corvettes. Its dramatic styling, limited production run, and historical significance make it particularly desirable among C2 Corvette collectors.
This particular example adds another compelling ingredient to the mix. Underneath its long hood sits the desirable L76 327 V8, paired with a four-speed manual transmission and Positraction differential. That’s a combination guaranteed to attract attention from serious Corvette enthusiasts.
The 340 HP L76 V8 Makes This Corvette Even More Desirable
Chevrolet rated the high performance L76 small-block V8 at 340 horsepower, courtesy of solid lifters, a high-lift camshaft, an 11.25:1 compression ratio, and a four-barrel carburetor. It offered considerably more muscle than the standard 250 hp and optional 300 hp 327 engines available in 1963.
The L76 sat just below the fuel-injected 360-hp L84 in Chevrolet’s engine hierarchy. For buyers craving serious small-block performance without the additional expense and complexity of mechanical fuel injection, the 340 hp V8 was an appealing alternative.
This particular 1963 Corvette underwent extensive refurbishment during 2016 and 2017. The work included rebuilding its L76 engine and four-speed manual transmission, refinishing the fiberglass body in white, and restoring the red interior. Suspension components, brakes, and several mechanical systems also received attention.
A Restored 1963 Corvette Split-Window With Just 196 Miles Showing
The restoration preserved the Corvette’s original Ermine White and red color combination, giving this classic American sports car an unmistakably period-correct appearance. Concealed headlights, turbine-style wheels with three-eared knock-off spinners, and chrome accents complete the exterior.
Inside, the red cabin features refurbished bucket seats, replacement carpeting, refreshed trim, and a rebuilt analog clock. It’s a wonderfully nostalgic reminder of when sports car interiors relied on physical gauges rather than touchscreen menus.
The odometer displays just 196 miles, reportedly accumulated since the restoration was completed. The car’s actual lifetime mileage remains unknown, an important distinction for collectors evaluating its condition and originality.
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