As far as C2-generation Corvettes go, it’s nearly impossible to find an example that’s more worthy of praise than this particular one, which seems to have it all. For starters, this is a 1963, the first year of the second iteration and the only one that saw Chevy making the now-iconic split-window rear glass. And this features the uber-rare Z06 package, while being almost 100 percent original.
Heavily inspired by the styling of the XP-755 Mako Shark concept, the ’63 Corvette, a generation that adopted the Sting Ray name, featured a transverse leaf spring independent rear suspension, albeit with most powertrains being carried on from the 1962 model year (the final one for the C1).
This meant buyers could choose between multiple iterations of the 327 ci (L) Small Block, with these coming in 250, 300, 340, and 360 hp forms. The list of trannies included a two-speed Powerglide automatic, as well as three- and four-speed manuals.
1963 also saw the introduction of the Regular Production Option Z06 packageโthis was the original Z06!. Also dubbed Special Performance Equipment, which boosted the price of the Coupe (it was only later added to the Convertible) by almost a quarter.
The high dollar was justified by the addition of go-fast items across the board. It all started with the said 360 hp fuel-injected V8, mated to a close-ratio four-speed manual. The heavy-duty suspension was joined by upgraded brakes. Among others, the more serious stopping hardware included brake drums that packed extra cooling hardware such as special finsโyou can check these out in the gallery below.
Nevertheless, the said price is one of the reasons for which just 199 1963 Split-Window Coupes featured the Z06 package, which easily puts this unit into collector context.
This is an all-original example that can loosely be described as a survivor
According to All Collector Autos LLC, the dealership that took this Sting Ray out of hibernation after more than 35 years, we’re dealing with a California car, which means rust isn’t an issue. And, based on the company’s Instagram posts, the vehicle might still be up for grabs.
The ‘Vette has spent its entire lifetime with a single family and even has its original black Cali license plate.
It’s also worth mentioning that the machine is all-original: “Original born with 327/360hp fuel-injected engine wearing all its original components! The Z06 brakes and suspension are all there, original dual Z06 master cylinder, finned drums, cooling fans inside, etc. and the backing plate covers for the vents look to have never been removed!”
The odometer shows 77,000 original miles (124,000 km), while the tan leather interior is also in factory trim, albeit with a Hurst shifter having been added decades ago.
Now, while the vehicle hasn’t been restored, the said arguable nature of its survivor quality has to do with the fact that it has received one repaint back in the dayโthe original paint can still be seen when opening the doors, though.
Big money
In case you’re wondering, an average price for such a vehicleโgiven the specialty of the car, that term is relativeโsits at around $500,000. For the record, a perfect example with just 5,400 miles (8,700 km) traded hands for $1,242,500 earlier this month at the 2022 Gooding & Co. Amelia Island auction.
PS: While the first part of the image gallery showcases the 1963 Corvette Z06 Split Window as it was pulled from the barn a few months ago, the second part shows the vehicle being detailed in the shop of the said specialist.