1963 Pontiac Tempest
When Pontiac rolled out the 1963 Tempest, they probably didn’t plan for its innovative driveshaft design to be lovingly nicknamed the “rope-drive” — but here we are! This compact car was a trailblazer, featuring a rear-mounted transaxle and independent rear suspension, making it one of the most unique and influential cars of its time. For collectors, verifying authenticity is key; decode the VIN, get the build sheet, and research its history for title and condition clarity. Ready to uncover more exciting facts? Hop in and let’s ride!
1963 Pontiac Tempest Gallery
Most Expensive 1963 Pontiac Tempest Sold
History of 1963 Pontiac Tempest
The Tempest was designed under the leadership of John DeLorean, the legendary engineer and executive who later created the Pontiac GTO and founded the DeLorean Motor Company.
The 1963 Pontiac Tempest stands out for its innovative “rope-drive” shaft and rear-mounted transaxle, which provided balanced weight distribution and improved handling. It offered engine options like a 194.5 cubic inch straight-four and a 326 cubic inch V8. Available in various body styles, including the sporty LeMans variant, the Tempest influenced the later Pontiac GTO. Its performance prowess was showcased in drag racing, cementing its place in automotive history. The Pontiac Tempest was named Motor Trend’s Car of the Year for its innovative engineering and well-rounded performance, solidifying its place in automotive history.The 1963 Tempest remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its unique engineering and historical significance.
Interested in buying a classic car or selling one?
Access detailed history reports for classic vehicles from hundreds of manufacturers.
- Accident Records
- Theft Records
- Loan & Lien Information
- Auction Information
- Salvage Information and more.
Popular Figures Who Own a 1963 Pontiac Tempest
Here are some notable owners of the 1963 Pontiac Tempest
Jim Wangers: Wangers is an automotive marketing executive who was often referred to as the “Godfather of the GTO.” He played a significant role in promoting the Pontiac brand, including the Tempest. His marketing strategies helped elevate Pontiac’s image during the 1960s, making it a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts.
Wild Bill Shrewsberry: Shrewsberry is known for racing one of the twelve 1963 Pontiac Tempest “Super Duty” models, which were built specifically for NHRA competition. His success in these vehicles helped showcase the Tempest’s capabilities in motorsports.
Chris Bishop: Although primarily known for his collection of GTOs, Bishop has expressed admiration for various Pontiac models, including the Tempest. His passion for classic cars reflects the broader appeal of Pontiac’s offerings during that era.
Facts About the 1963 Pontiac Tempest
Here are five fascinating facts about the 63 Tempest:
- The Tempest Super Duty was a dominant force in drag racing, with some models achieving quarter-mile times of just over 12 seconds.
- The 1963 model featured a new “coke bottle” design with more angular rooflines, a longer trunk, and wider wheel openings.
- The Tempest was available with a range of engines, including the 195 cubic inch (3.2L) Trophy 4 and the 326 cubic inch (5.3L) V8.
- The 1963 Tempest could reach a top speed of 92 mph (148 km/h). The Tempest Super Duty variant could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds.
- In 1963, 69,831 units of the Pontiac Tempest were produced. This included various body styles such as coupes, sedans, and convertibles.
Learn more about a classic car: Get Build Sheet by VIN.
Access reproduced classic build sheets to learn more about your classic vehicle details.
- Standard Specifications
- Original Base Price
- Standard & Optional Equipment
- Exterior & Interior Colors
- VIN ID & Location description
MSRP
- Msrp: $2,512.00
Market Value
- Outstanding: $22,700
- Clean: $14,200
- Average: $6,900
- Rough: $4,400
Body
- Body Maker: Fisher
- No. Of Doors: 4
- Passengers: 6
- Model Number: 2135
Dimensions
- Length: 194.3 inches
- Width: 74.2 inches
- Height: 54 inches
- Wheelbase: 112 inches
- Weight: 2,995lbs
Engine
- Type: Inline, Valve-in-head, Single downdraft, Hydramatic 3 speed automatic
- Displacement: 194.43 cu. in.
- Cylinders: 4
- Bore And Stroke: 4 1/16 & 3 3/4 inches
- Compression Ratio Standard: 8.6 to 1
- Compression Ratio Optional: 10.25 to 1
- Horsepower Brake: 115@4000
- Horsepower Rated: 26.41
- Torque: 195@2000
- Main Bearings: 5
- Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
- Engine Number Location: On pad at front of right side of block.
- Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
- Carburetor Make: Rochester
Transmission
- Type: 3 Pints
- Drive: Rear wheel drive
- Number Of Gears: 3
- Gear Ratios First: Not applicable
- Gear Ratios Second: Not applicable
- Gear Ratios Third: Not applicable
- Gear Ratios Fourth: Not applicable
- Gear Ratios Fifth: Not applicable
- Gear Ratios Reverse: Not applicable
- Clutch Type: Single plate dry disc
- Clutch Size: 9.5 inches
Axle
- Type: Trans-axle
- Differential Type: Hypoid
- Differential Ratio: 3.30 to 1
Suspension
- Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
- Rear: Coil springs
Brakes
- Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
- Service Front Size: 9 inches
- Service Rear Size: 9 inches
- Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
- Emergency Size: 9 inches
Fuel
Wheel & Tires
- Tire Size: 6 x 15
- Spare Location: Trunk
Capacities
- Fuel: 20 Gallons
- Oil: 4 Quarts
- Rear Differential: 3.5 Pints
- Front Differential: Not applicable
- Transfer Case: Not applicable
VIN/ID
- Serial Number: Starting 163-1001
- Description Total Digits: 9
- Description Digits 1: Series
- Description Digits 2-3: Model year
- Description Digits 4: Assembly plant
- Description Digits 5-9: Production number
Exterior Colors
- Availability: All colors may not be available in all models.
- Color 1: Kimberly Blue
- Color 2: Yuma Beige
- Color 3: Starlight Black
- Color 4: Cameo Ivory
- Color 5: Silvermist Gray
- Color 6: Yorktown Blue
- Color 7: Silverleaf Green
- Color 8: Cordovan
- Color 9: Marimba Red
- Color 10: Aquamarine
- Color 11: Marlin Aqua
- Color 12: Saddle Bronze
- Color 13: Caravan Gold
- Color 14: Grenadier Red
- Color 15: Nocturne Blue
Optional Equipment
- Station Wagon 2-Seat: Optional
- Hydramatic Automatic Transmission: Optional
- Power Steering: Optional
- Pushbutton Radio: Optional
Get Classic Decoder On Your Mobile Device
We are making the experience better for you.
- Hassle-Free VIN decoding
- Access reports from your comfort zone
- 24/7 service support
- Hassle-Free VIN decoding
- Access reports from your comfort zone
- 24/7 service support
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get the build sheet of a 1963 Pontiac tempest for sale that I’m considering?
Simply use Classic Decoder's Pontiac build sheet by VIN tool to access the vehicle's factory configuration, specifications, and more. We also offer a Pontiac VIN decoder for all classic Pontiac, including the Pontiac Tempest 1963 models.
Is there a Carfax report for a 1963 Pontiac Tempest?
Carfax does not support classic cars or cars with 5 - 13-digit VIN numbers. To lookup a 1963 Tempest history or any classic car vehicle history, consider using our classic vehicle history report tool, which checks for title, sales history, and more, so you can make an informed decision.
Did the 1963 Pontiac Tempest have independent rear suspension?
Yes. The 1963 Pontiac Tempest rear suspension makes it a nimble-handling car. The rear suspension provides improved handling and stability by distributing weight evenly, enhancing the car's performance and ride quality.
How do I spot the difference between the 1963 Pontiac Tempest station wagon and the 63 Pontiac Tempest convertible?
The 1963 Pontiac Tempest station wagon has a longer roofline and rear cargo area, while the convertible features a retractable soft top and a shorter, more streamlined rear end. Simply use our classic VIN decoder to get all the details you need to differentiate between two Tempest models