Listed for sale on Bring a Trailer, this 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split-Window Coupe represents one of the most recognizable and sought-after configurations of Chevrolet’s second-generation sports car. Introduced for 1963, the C2 Corvette brought a substantially more sophisticated chassis and, for the first time, a fixed-roof coupe body. Its distinctive split rear window has since become one of the defining designs in Corvette history.
This example has particularly notable long-term provenance. It was purchased in 1973 by Chuck Walthers of Chuck’s Corvettes, the seller’s father, and has remained within the family collection ever since. The car is finished in Sebring Silver over a black vinyl interior and retains the styling cues that made the inaugural C2 instantly recognizable, including concealed flip-up headlamps, fender vents, quad taillights, chrome bumperettes, and dual exhaust outlets integrated into the rear valance.
Under the hood is a 327-cubic-inch L84 small-block V8 equipped with Rochester mechanical fuel injection and a high-lift camshaft. Factory rated at 360 horsepower, the fuel-injected engine sends its output to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission and an optional Positraction limited-slip differential with a 4.11:1 final-drive ratio.
The C2 also represented a major engineering advance over its predecessor. It was the first Corvette to employ fully independent suspension, using upper and lower control arms at the front and a three-link arrangement with a transverse leaf spring at the rear. Four-wheel power-assisted drum brakes provide stopping power.
The Corvette rides on 15-inch turbine-style wheels fitted with two-eared knock-off spinners and 6.70-series Firestone tires. Inside, black vinyl bucket seats are complemented by matching carpets and door panels. Equipment includes a heater, AM radio, analog clock, and lap belts.
The driver faces a three-spoke steering wheel and a 160-mph speedometer, accompanied by a 6,500-rpm-redline tachometer and gauges monitoring amperage, oil pressure, coolant temperature, and fuel level. Combining enduring provenance, the rare split-window body, and Chevrolet’s top-tier fuel-injected 327 specification, this C2 embodies a pivotal chapter in Corvette development.
Source: Bring a Trailer
