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1963 Chevrolet Corvette

The '63 Corvette: a Sting Ray legend! Sleek, aggressive, and iconic split rear window, it cemented the Corvette's sports car status. A cultural touchstone of the era, its performance and style defined a generation's automotive desires. A beautiful machine with a powerful history.

History of the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette

The second-generation Corvette, known as the C2, marks a pivotal moment in automotive history. Crafted under the guidance of chief engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov, the C2 debuted in 1963, bringing forth innovations that still echo in automotive design. The Corvette was offered as both a coupe and convertible, with the iconic split rear window design that was inspired by the Bugatti Type 57SC.

This version came with a powerful 5.4L fuel-injected V8 engine, flexing 360 horsepower that propelled the car from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 6.1 seconds. It's no wonder it ignited the passion of speed enthusiasts and cemented Corvette as a symbol of freedom and adventure in American culture.

Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Chevrolet Corvette Worth?

Original MSRP :

Outstanding

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$108,000

Clean

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$88,900

Average

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$57,300*

Rough

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$43,700

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 2
Passengers: 2
Model Number: 837
Length: 175.3 inches
Width: 57 inches
Height: 49.3 inches
Wheelbase: 98 inches
Type: Turbo-Fire V8, valve-in-head, , Synchronous 3-speed manual
Displacement: 327 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 4 & 3 1/4 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 11.25 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 360@6000
Horsepower Rated: 51.2
Torque: 352@4000
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Block Material: Cast alloy iron
Engine Number Location: On front right side of block.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Type:
4 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.47 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.53 to 1
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.80 to 1
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.36 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Transverse leaf springs
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 11 inches
Type: Premium
Wheel Size: 15
Tire Type: 4-ply
Tire Size: 6.7 x 15
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 20 Gallons
Oil: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3.72 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:30867S100001 to 30867S121513
Total Digits:12
Digits 1:Model year
Digits 2-3:Series
Digits 4-5:Body style
Digits 6:Assembly plant
Digits 7-12:Production number
Riverside Red, Daytona Blue, Silver Blue, Tuxedo Black, Ermine White, Saddle Tan, Sebring Silver
Convertible: Opt
Auxiliary Hardtop For Convertibles: Opt
4-Speed Manual Transmission: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
AM-FM Radio (U69): Opt

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Famous Figures Who Own Classic Cars

Now, let's take a gander at some legendary figures known for their love of classic Corvettes. You won't believe who's on this list!

President Joe Biden

Joe Biden, the current President of the United States, is a well-known Corvette enthusiast. He owns a 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, a gift from his father. This car holds significant sentimental value for him, often serving as a reminder of simpler times and the freedom represented by classic American engineering.

Elvis Presley

Ah, the King himself! Elvis Presley was known to cruise around in a 1959 Corvette, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of American rock 'n' roll. His classic ride symbolized his status as a cultural icon and his passion for Americana.

Bruce Springsteen

The Boss is another famed Corvette aficionado. Owning a 1960 Corvette, Springsteen's love for this automotive legend comes as no surprise, given his music's themes of American life and the open road.

Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Jr.

These NASCAR legends added their names to the list of Corvette devotees. The connection between racing prowess and the Corvette only strengthens the iconic image this vehicle holds across generations.

George Clooney and Jay Leno

Adding more Hollywood glitter, George Clooney and Jay Leno, both have Corvettes in their impressive car collections. Leno, in particular, is a fervent collector of various Corvette models, many of which he showcases and discusses with a twinkle in his eye.

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Iconic in Pop Culture

You might've seen the Corvette scream across your screen in blockbuster movies and TV shows. From "True Lies" with Arnold Schwarzenegger to "Less Than Zero" starring Robert Downey Jr., this car has carved a niche in pop culture as a must-have superstar ride.

Performance and Market Impact

Now, if you're considering purchasing a classic car, maybe a Corvette, the market dynamics can be quite enticing. In the collector's world, the 1963 Corvette could fetch astonishing figures like $3.85 million! And while every piece isn't priced that high, its market allure remains robust.

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Gallery

Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette
Photo of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette

Performance Prowess

The C2's speed and performance are legendary, making it a staple on every enthusiast's watchlist. Its racing legacy, underscored by the Grand Sport project, saw it achieving unexpected victories over dominant cars like the Shelby Cobra. Thanks to these achievements, the Corvette cemented its status as a formidable racing adversary.

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Conclusion

From its inception, the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette has been more than just a car. It embodies a legacy of innovation, cultural significance, and timeless appeal. So, whether you're a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, this classic is bound to accelerate your heart. Happy cruising!

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Frequently Asked Questions

The '63 Corvette, man, it's a real head-turner! It's easily distinguished by its split rear window, a design element that's become iconic. Think of it like the signature hairstyle of a rockstar – instantly recognizable. Other defining features include the Sting Ray styling, a more aggressive, sharper look compared to previous models; the independent rear suspension, which provided a smoother, more comfortable ride; and the availability of a 327 cubic inch small-block V8, a real powerhouse for its time. You know, it's like comparing a vintage record player to a modern iPod; they both play music but the experience is totally different. These features, together, make the '63 Corvette a truly special classic.

The 1963 Corvette offered a few different engine choices, each with its own personality. The base engine was a 230-horsepower 327 cubic inch small-block V8, a solid workhorse for everyday driving. But hey, if you wanted more oomph, you could opt for a 300-horsepower version of the same engine or even go for the top-of-the-line 340-horsepower option; a real beast! It's kind of like picking out pizza toppings; you could go for the basic pepperoni, or you could really go all out. So, plenty of choices for the speed demons back then, you know?

Wow, that's a tough one! The value of a '63 Corvette varies wildly depending on the condition, restoration quality, and any unique modifications. A pristine, fully restored example could fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars; that's some serious coin! On the other hand, a car needing significant restoration might sell for considerably less. It's not unlike buying a house; location, condition, and upgrades all have huge impacts. Think of it like this; a fully restored car is like a diamond in the rough, polished to perfection, while a car that needs work is more of a project that could take time, money and dedication to make it shine.

Like any classic car, the '63 Corvette can have its quirks. Common issues can include things like the fuel system, which can be temperamental after all these years; the electrical system, which, well, let's just say it can be a bit fussy; and the brakes, which might need some TLC. These aren't deal breakers, especially for someone experienced with classic car maintenance, but they're things potential buyers need to be aware of and budget for. It's like maintaining an old house - regular upkeep is key. Always get a pre-purchase inspection from a reputable mechanic.

Finding parts for a '63 Corvette is easier than you might think! Many specialty shops and online retailers cater to classic car enthusiasts. There's a whole community out there. Plus, you've got swap meets and online forums to scour. Think of it like a treasure hunt. You could locate original parts, or maybe you'll find high-quality reproductions; either way, it's part of the fun. It's definitely a dedicated community, one thing's for sure.