| 1963 Chevrolet Corvette |
In 1963 Chevrolet introduced the one-year-only Corvette split window coupe designed by Larry Shinoda under the styling
direction of Bill Mitchell. The design was inspired by Bill Mitchell's 1959 Stingray racer and the 1961 Mako Shark concept
car. In addition to the rear split window design, the 1963 Corvette featured faux hood vents, a pointed hood bulge or
“stinger,” and a ridge across the roof. These design elements were eliminated in 1964, making the 1963 model rare and
desirable among collectors.
The Corvette featured rear independent suspension designed by famed GM engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov. The Corvette
also benefited from one of the greatest engines of all times, the 327 cid version of the Chevy “small block.” Compact light
and capable of staggering amounts of horsepower, it was also a relatively inexpensive engine. The 1963 Corvette was
available in four engines options rated between 250 and 360 hp. Chevrolet built 21,513 Corvette Sting Rays in 1963. The
production was equally divided between convertibles and split window coupes. The subject car was one of 2,610 were fitted
with the 360 hp L84 fuel injected engine, the most powerful option available. Coupled to a close-ratio 4 speed manual
transmission and Posi-Traction rear end, this car was a dominate street racer in its day, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a
mere 5.9 seconds.
direction of Bill Mitchell. The design was inspired by Bill Mitchell's 1959 Stingray racer and the 1961 Mako Shark concept
car. In addition to the rear split window design, the 1963 Corvette featured faux hood vents, a pointed hood bulge or
“stinger,” and a ridge across the roof. These design elements were eliminated in 1964, making the 1963 model rare and
desirable among collectors.
The Corvette featured rear independent suspension designed by famed GM engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov. The Corvette
also benefited from one of the greatest engines of all times, the 327 cid version of the Chevy “small block.” Compact light
and capable of staggering amounts of horsepower, it was also a relatively inexpensive engine. The 1963 Corvette was
available in four engines options rated between 250 and 360 hp. Chevrolet built 21,513 Corvette Sting Rays in 1963. The
production was equally divided between convertibles and split window coupes. The subject car was one of 2,610 were fitted
with the 360 hp L84 fuel injected engine, the most powerful option available. Coupled to a close-ratio 4 speed manual
transmission and Posi-Traction rear end, this car was a dominate street racer in its day, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a
mere 5.9 seconds.
