The 1960s produced its share of American classics featuring iconic styling. However, few are probably more instantly recognizable than the 1963 Corvette Split Window Coupe. A one-year-only model, the Split Window has become one of the most desirable classics from that era, and pristine examples command eye-watering prices. This ‘Vette is far from fulfilling its potential, requiring a total restoration. However, it is rock-solid, and the engine bay houses its numbers-matching L76 V8. The seller has listed this promising project here on eBay in Richmond, Kentucky. Bidding sits below the reserve at $79,450, with a BIN option of $88,900 available for those who view it as an automotive must-have.

The C2 Chevrolet hit showroom floors for the 1963 model year, and there was initial reluctance within company management to add a Coupe variant to the range. They felt it would dilute sales, but their fears proved unfounded. Sales volumes climbed by 50% compared to the previous year’s record, and almost half of those buyers selected the Coupe. Its split rear window was a defining characteristic, but some owners found it impeded visibility. There are examples of dealerships providing a conversion service in subsequent years, cutting away the original fiberglass to slot in the one-piece back window from the 1964 Coupe. I’m sure that if those owners had known how values for unmolested examples would climb, they would have learned to live with the problem. This Corvette is an unfinished project and a “what you see is what you get” proposition. One missing item is the Trim Tag, meaning potential buyers may need to investigate further to confirm the seller’s belief that the car left the line finished in Sebring Silver. However, the fiberglass is in good order, and the seller has found no rust in the frame or birdcage. The shopping list will include almost every piece of exterior trim, and stripping it for a frame-off build would be the best approach with the car in its current state.

The missing Tag also raises questions about the interior trim, although Red was available with Sebring Silver paint. It appears the seatcovers and door trims may be new, but the entire dash assembly is original. This is another area missing a significant array of parts, including the steering column. However, any required items are readily available, and the existing components offer a reasonable foundation for an interior restoration.

Chevrolet offered 1963 Corvette buyers four versions of the 327ci V8 to power their new purchase. The undoubted bargain was the L76 version that occupies this engine bay. It delivered 340hp and 344 ft/lbs of torque while only adding $107.60 to the sticker price. It is little wonder that almost ⅓ of buyers ticked that box on the Order Form. The seller and the supplied images confirm this L76 is original, although the seller admits the four-speed manual transmission isn’t. I always shudder when I see engines with open intakes because that makes it easy for foreign bodies and moisture to find their way inside. Once again, the engine bay is missing many components, and searching for period-correct items will occupy the new owner’s time if they plan a faithful restoration. There is no information on the engine’s health, so factoring a rebuild into the restoration budget could be wise.

The 1963 Corvette Split Window Coupe suffered badly during the 2023 classic market downturn, but values have climbed consistently this year. They haven’t reached their previous levels, but they are close. The trend appears to be ongoing, making now a promising time to buy if long-term investment potential is a goal. This car requires total restoration, and the bill for parts will be significant. However, if the frame and birdcage are sound, it could be financially viable if the buyer pursues a hands-on approach. It isn’t a cheap project candidate, but the listing has accumulated enough watchers to suggest people find it genuinely interesting. Do you feel the same?