The revolutionary 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split Window Coupe still animates conversations about automotive design more than six decades after its 1962 introduction to a surprised and delighted public. A one-year-only design, examples such as this elegant split window still excite the senses, even among those who do not consider themselves “car people.” Produced on January 3, 1963, and delivered new by Thornbury and Allen in Kingsburg, California, it boasts a no-hit GM front end and a highly detailed chassis that has benefited from life in California’s car-friendly environment, just two contributing factors in earning the National Corvette Restorers Society’s Top Flight Award with an outstanding 98.9% score. Importantly, the car retains its matching-numbers drivetrain comprising the L76 327/340 HP V-8 engine, BorgWarner T10 4-speed manual transmission and Positraction differential. It combines rare and attractive Saddle Tan metallic paint with a matching tan interior, both returned to glory as part of a comprehensive body-off restoration that included balancing and blueprinting the engine assembly and refurbishing the suspension, transmission and rear end. Free-flowing off-road exhaust, tinted glass and an AM/FM radio round out the car’s factory specifications; while only a scant few, if any, 1963 Corvettes were originally fitted with the first-production aluminum knock-off wheels, they have become an iconic addition to many restored examples, as seen here in combination with vintage 6.70x15 white-stripe tires. Documented with the official NCRS/GM Shipping Data records, NCRS Top Flight certificate, NCRS Confirmation of Existing Awards, owner’s manual packet, owner history, copies of titles, restoration photos, restoration receipts and three 3-ring binders, this gorgeous matching-numbers split window coupe retains most all factory-correct-type components including the spare, jack, jack tools, seat belts, washer system, shifter, shielding, air cleaner, alternator, distributor, idler pulley, spark plug shields, hoses, hose clamps, carburetor, valve covers, 6-quart oil pan, fuel filter, starter, expansion tank, radiator, gas door assembly, long base bowtie mirror, glovebox door, cookie tin hood and T-3 headlights.
