This 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split Window Coupe has been part of the same family since 1975, but it was only recently revived after hibernating since 1990. It runs and drives, and its overall presentation might motivate the new owner to preserve this classic. However, restoration is an achievable goal, and with values climbing, it could be the most appropriate approach. However, it is worth noting that as a project candidate, the price isn’t exactly pocket change. The seller has listed this Split Window here on Craigslist in Ithaca, New York. They set their price at $115,000, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P for spotting this classic.

The seller has been this Corvette’s custodian since 2014, inheriting the car from their father, who initially purchased it in 1975. It is not unknown for an owner to modify a vehicle motivated by a particular song. Such is the case here, because this Coupe started life resplendent in Sebring Silver. However, the release of the Prince hit “Little Red Corvette” prompted the seller’s father to perform a color change to Riverside Red. It remains untouched, with the exterior holding a nice shine. The seller describes the paint as 7/10, suggesting a close inspection will reveal minor flaws and defects. Preservation is possible, although many might consider a cosmetic refresh. What form this takes will be a matter of personal preference, but returning the exterior to its original shade would maximize the vehicle’s investment potential. The trim and glass are in good order for a survivor-grade classic, and the ‘Vette rolls on a spotless set of knock-off wheels. Whether these are genuine or reproductions is unclear, but they provide an excellent finishing touch to the exterior.

Their desire for perfection will drive the new owner’s approach to this Corvette’s interior. A complete retrim probably isn’t justified because the appearance is easily acceptable for a driver-grade classic. The Black upholstered surfaces are free from significant wear, while the dash appears in good order. The shifter is an aftermarket addition, but it is the only visible change inside this classic. The carpet, particularly on the lower door trims, exhibits fading. Whether this would respond positively to a dye job is unclear, but replacement might be a better option to lift the overall presentation. The passenger-side armrest has deteriorated, and replacement would seem the best bet, with reproductions retailing for under $100 each. It isn’t highly equipped, but the interior retains its factory radio.

The seller doesn’t believe the 327ci V8 occupying this Corvette’s engine bay is original, although they don’t seem entirely sure. An in-person inspection would reveal the truth and also confirm which version it is. It should send at least 250hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. That would comfortably place a sub-16-second ¼-mile ET within the driver’s grasp, although a lower figure is possible. The seller became this car’s custodian in 2014, indicating it was only recently revived after hibernating since 1990. The car starts, runs, and drives, but there are tasks for the new owner to tackle before it is considered genuinely roadworthy. The seller mentions a small fluid leak, but its source is unclear. They also describe the brakes as “grabby,” suggesting they may require attention. However, the indications are the buyer will face very few challenges in returning this classic to its rightful place on our roads.

Chevrolet hit a sweet spot with potential Corvette buyers with the introduction of the C2 in 1963. The previous sales record stood at 14,531, but the first-year C2 comfortably eclipsed that figure with 21,513. The C2 also brought a Coupe to the table for the first time, with 10,594 buyers giving one a new home in 1963. The Split Window didn’t meet with universal appeal, standing as a one-year-only model. They have become one of the most desirable vehicles in the classic market, and this car’s price reflects that. It isn’t perfect, but it has only been on the market for around one day. Do you think it will find a new home, and how quickly will that happen?