In 1963, the Corvette introduced a thrilling new look with the arrival of the Corvette Stingray. Two exciting new models paved the way for a fresh era in American sports car design.
The Corvette Stingray Sports Coupe, with its sleek body panels and compound-curved side windows, showcased a revolutionary aerodynamic design.
The power-operated retractable headlamps seamlessly disappeared into the smooth hood line, and the upward-extending doors offered easy entry and exit, making sliding in and out a breeze. The Stingray Sports Coupe was taut, fresh, and meticulously designed, with a clean and elegant look.
The convertible version of the ’63 Corvette exuded even more charm, with its simple, uncluttered lines, accented by wrap-around bumpers at both the front and rear.
The rear deck’s subtle contours, gleaming aluminum grille, retractable headlamps, and sweeping hood-length wind split further enhanced the appeal of this bold new Corvette.
Beyond its striking appearance, the 1963 Corvette offered a truly thrilling driving experience, thanks to its innovative engineering. Beneath its sleek exterior, the Corvette was built with cutting-edge features designed to elevate the driving experience.
The new frame was stronger and more rigid than its predecessors, and the four-wheel independent suspension provided a smooth ride even over bumpy terrain, ensuring steady handling.
Maintenance was made easier with the inclusion of a battery-saving Delcotron generator, an extended-life exhaust system, and hydraulic self-adjusting brakes. The 1963 model also introduced Ball-Race steering, an adjustable steering column, and wider wheel rims.
Listing:
This vintage 1963 Corvette is on sale for $76000 on Gateway Classic Cars Houston Showroom.
The 1963 Corvette offered a range of powerful engine options, each tailored to deliver exceptional performance. All four versions of the V8 engines featured a 327-cubic-inch displacement, with a 4″ bore and 3.25″ stroke.
The standard 250-hp engine came equipped with a single 4-barrel carburetor, a 10.5:1 compression ratio, hydraulic valve lifters, and a new dual exhaust system.
The 300-hp engine upgraded to a larger aluminum 4-barrel carburetor and larger intake valves. The 340- and 360-hp engines featured cylinder heads with large ports, domed aluminum pistons, a 11.25:1 compression ratio, high-speed valve systems with specifically finished exhaust valves, mechanical valve lifters, ribbed aluminum rocker covers, special camshafts, and a 5-quart oil capacity (4-quart capacity on the 250- and 300-hp engines).
The 360-hp Fuel Injection engine boasted a larger aluminum manifold with improved ram pipes and a warning buzzer for the tachometer.