The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window Coupe represents a defining moment in American sports car design, combining an unmistakable body style with advanced engineering and high-performance V8 power. This example, currently offered on Bring a Trailer, pairs its original fuel-injected powertrain specification with an extensive restoration, documented provenance, and multiple awards from the National Corvette Restorers Society (NCRS).
Originally delivered to Ziegler Motors in Zelienople, Pennsylvania, the Corvette left the factory finished in Silver Blue (912) with a factory-stated price of $5,304.80. Its original equipment included Rochester mechanical fuel injection, power steering, power brakes, power windows, and a Delco AM/FM radio. The exterior retains signature C2 design elements, including concealed pop-up headlamps, functional-looking fender vents, four round taillights, and dual exhaust outlets integrated into the rear valance.
Naber Brothers of Houston, Texas, carried out a cosmetic and mechanical restoration totaling more than $96,000. The work included separating the body from the chassis, rebuilding the engine and transmission, installing replacement suspension components, renewing the clutch assembly, and refurbishing the interior. The body was repainted in its original Silver Blue, while documented replacement panels and components included the hood, glass, upper surround, rear upper deck panel, rear quarter panels, and chrome bumperettes. The restoration’s quality was recognized with three NCRS Top Flight awards in 2011 and 2012, earning scores of 97.5, 97.1, and 97.2. The car also received a Palmetto Award at the November 2011 Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival in South Carolina.
The C2 generation introduced fully independent suspension to the Corvette, employing unequal-length control arms at the front and a three-link rear arrangement with a transverse leaf spring. This example features power steering and extensive suspension renewal, including replacement control arms, shocks, springs, rear trailing arms, tie-rod ends, and associated hardware.
Color-matched 15-inch steel wheels wear three-eared spinner-style hubcaps and US Royal Safety 800 tires. Power-assisted drum brakes provide stopping capability. Inside, dark blue vinyl bucket seats, coordinated seat belts, and restored door panels complement a cabin refurbished with new carpeting and padding, reconditioned belts, and repaired console and glovebox components. Instrumentation includes a 160-mph speedometer, a tachometer with a 6,500-rpm redline, and auxiliary gauges.
Power comes from the 327-cubic-inch L84 small-block V8, featuring Rochester mechanical fuel injection and a high-lift camshaft. Factory-rated at 360 horsepower, the engine sends power to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual gearbox and a 3.70:1 Positraction limited-slip differential.
The five-digit odometer displays 61,105 miles, approximately 300 of which were added during the current ownership period of 16 years. Supported by its original window sticker, detailed restoration invoices, and documented concours achievements, this Split-Window Coupe represents a highly specified and carefully restored example of one of Chevrolet’s most collectible sports cars.
Source: Bring a Trailer
