1963 Chevrolet Corvette

Description

Introduced for 1963, the second-generation Corvette represented one of the most significant changes in the model's history, bringing an all-new chassis, independent rear suspension and the unmistakable Sting Ray body. This 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible takes that landmark design in a thoroughly modernized direction, retaining its classic C2 appearance while incorporating contemporary LS power, an all-new chassis, C4 suspension and a custom interior.

The fiberglass body is finished in deep Long Beach Red Metallic, a rich finish introduced for the C7 Corvette that now emphasizes the C2's pronounced fender lines and sculpted rear deck. A '67-style Stinger hood adds one of the most recognizable styling elements from the later C2 while traditional Corvette brightwork remains throughout, including the split chrome bumpers, rocker trim, windshield surround and exterior hardware. A cloth convertible top provides weather protection and maintains the open character of the car when lowered. Chrome 18" C7 five-spoke wheels give the Corvette a modern stance without straying far from Chevrolet styling and are backed by drilled and slotted brake rotors with contrasting red calipers.

Power comes from a Chevrolet Performance crate LS3 V8 supported by an aluminum radiator and electric cooling fan. The engine is backed by a GM SuperMatic 4L65E 4-speed automatic transmission, with power delivered to a Dana 44 rear differential with 3.45 gears and limited-slip. Beneath the body is an all-new Corvette Correction chassis finished in black powder coat and utilizing C4 independent suspension front and rear, along with power rack-and-pinion steering and Global West adjustable suspension components. Four-wheel power disc brakes incorporate an electronic booster, while a stainless steel fuel tank and large-diameter dual exhaust with an X-pipe further support the mechanical package.

Inside, the Corvette features a custom interior completed by Portage Trim, centered around black bucket seats with ribbed inserts, contrasting stitching and embroidered Corvette logos. Custom door panels incorporate body-matched armrests, while the custom center console features a matching padded armrest with concealed storage and flip-out cupholders. The dashboard retains the twin-cowl layout central to the C2 interior but has been extensively reworked with body-color accents, a brushed passenger-side insert and red-illuminated Dakota Digital instrumentation. Modern air conditioning is controlled through dash-mounted controls, while a digital Bluetooth audio system provides updated entertainment.

Rather than changing the character of the early Sting Ray, this build uses modern engineering to make its unmistakable design more usable on today's roads. The extensive work beneath the body is balanced by an exterior that remains immediately recognizable as a C2 Corvette, while the custom cabin follows the same approach inside. It is a thoughtfully executed interpretation of the 1963 Corvette that preserves the qualities that made the original so memorable while delivering a substantially different experience from behind the wheel.

Key Highlights

• Ground up built 1963 Corvette Restomod
• Chevrolet Performance crate 6.2L LS3 V8
• GM SuperMatic 4L65E 4-speed automatic transmission
• Dana 44 rear differential with 3.45 gears
• Limited-slip differential
• Aluminum radiator with electric cooling fan
• All new Corvette Correction chassis
• Black powder-coated frame
• Updated C4 Corvette independent suspension
• Global West adjustable suspension components
• Power rack-and-pinion steering
• Power four-wheel power disc brakes
• Modern air conditioning
• Stainless steel fuel tank
• Stinger hood
• Smoothed firewall
• Cloth convertible top
• Chrome 18" C7 five-spoke wheels
• Custom interior by Portage Trim
• Custom black bucket seats
• Dakota Digital instrumentation
• Digital Bluetooth audio system
• Custom center console with concealed storage and flip-out cupholders