| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | American Sports Car |
| Released At | 1963 (C2 generation), 1967 (final year) |
| Built At | St. Louis, Missouri, USA |
| Engine | 7.0L Big Block V8 (L88 – optional) |
| Position | Front-Engine, Longitudinal |
| Aspiration | Natural Aspiration |
| Block Material | Cast Iron |
| Valvetrain | OHV, 2 Valves per Cylinder |
| Fuel Feed | 4-Barrel Holley Carburetor |
| Displacement | 6997 cc / 427 cu in |
| Power | 435 hp / 324 kW @ 5800 rpm (L71) – est. 560 hp for L88 |
| Specific Output | 62.2 hp per liter (L71) |
| Torque | 624 Nm / 460 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm |
| Top Speed | 250+ km/h / 155+ mph |
| 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 seconds (L88) |
| 0 – 100 km/h | 5.0 seconds |
| Body / Frame | Fiberglass Body on Steel Frame |
| Driven Wheels | RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) |
| Wheel Type | Rally Wheels or Optional Aluminum |
| Front Tires | 7.75 x 15 Bias-Ply |
| Rear Tires | 7.75 x 15 Bias-Ply |
| Front Brakes | 4-Wheel Disc Brakes |
| Rear Brakes | 4-Wheel Disc Brakes |
| Front Wheels | 15 x 6 in |
| Rear Wheels | 15 x 6 in |
| Front Suspension | Independent with Coil Springs and Upper/Lower Control Arms |
| Rear Suspension | Independent with Transverse Leaf Spring |
| Curb Weight | 1450 kg / 3197 lbs |
| Weight Distribution | Front 52% / Rear 48% (approx.) |
| Wheelbase | 2490 mm / 98.0 in |
| Length | 4470 mm / 176.0 in |
| Width | 1760 mm / 69.3 in |
| Height | 1220 mm / 48.0 in |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Manual (Muncie M21 or M22) |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 18.0 L/100 km / 13.0 mpg (US) |
| Fuel Capacity | 75 liters / 20 gallons |

First Corvette with Independent Rear Suspension The C2 was the first Corvette to feature independent rear suspension, drastically improving handling and ride quality compared to the solid rear axle in the C1.
Debuted the “Sting Ray” Name The second-generation Corvette introduced the now-legendary “Sting Ray” name in 1963, inspired by a racing concept and a real-life mako shark.
Split-Window Coupe Was a One-Year Wonder The 1963 Corvette Coupe had a unique split rear window, which became instantly iconic — but due to poor rear visibility, it was dropped in 1964, making the ‘63 split-window highly collectible today.
Inspired by Aeronautics and Nature The C2’s design was heavily influenced by aviation and marine life, thanks to designer Bill Mitchell, resulting in its sleek, sculpted body and hidden headlamps.
First Corvette Offered as a Coupe Prior to the C2, the Corvette was only offered as a convertible. The 1963 model introduced a fixed-roof coupe, giving buyers more versatility and a dramatic fastback silhouette.
Available with Fuel Injection The Corvette C2 was one of the few cars in the 1960s to offer mechanical fuel injection, delivering up to 360 hp from a small-block 327 V8 — impressive tech for its time.
Multiple Engine Options Throughout Its Run The C2 offered a variety of V8s, from 327 cubic inch small-blocks to 427 big-block monsters, including legendary versions like the L88, which was underrated at 430 hp (but actually closer to 500).
Optional Side-Exit Exhausts and Knock-Off Wheels Buyers could spec their Stingray with side-mounted exhaust pipes and knock-off aluminum wheels, both of which became signature styling cues for Corvette enthusiasts.
Race-Proven Performance C2 Corvettes were highly successful in motorsports, particularly in SCCA and endurance racing, where their improved chassis and high-revving engines gave them a competitive edge.
Considered One of the Most Beautiful American Cars Ever Made The Corvette Sting Ray’s blend of muscular curves, aggressive stance, and clean lines has earned it a reputation as one of the most timeless and iconic designs in automotive history.

The Chevrolet Corvette C2 Sting Ray (1963–1967) is an iconic American sports car, celebrated for its revolutionary design and performance. In the EU, prices vary widely based on model year, engine, condition, and originality.
Here's the latest market insight (mid-2024):
Average EU Prices
By Condition & Spec:
Project/restoration candidate: €30,000 – €60,000(Rusty, non-running, or incomplete—common issues: frame rot, missing parts.)
Driver-quality (restored/modified): €60,000 – €100,000(Solid, runs well but may have non-original engine/repaints.)
Numbers-matching, excellent condition: €100,000 – €180,000(Original engine/transmission, factory colors, minimal flaws.)
Top-tier/rare configurations: €180,000 – €300,000+(Fuel-injected 327/360hp, big-block 427, split-window coupe (1963 only), or documented race history.)
Key Price Factors:
Engine: Small-block (327ci): Most common; base models start around €60k. Big-block (396/427ci): Adds 50–100% premium (e.g., €150k+ for a 427/435hp). Fuel-injected (1965–1967): Rare and desirable (+€30k–€50k).
Body Style: Split-window coupe (1963 only): Most collectible (€200k+ for top examples). Convertibles: Typically 10–20% more than coupes.
Originality: Numbers-matching cars fetch 2x the price of restomods.
Rust: Check birdcage (windshield frame), floor pans, and rear suspension mounts.
Where to Buy in the EU?
Classic Car Dealers: Classic Trader, Mobile.de.
Auctions: Look for listings on Catawiki or Bring a Trailer (EU imports).
US Imports: Many EU buyers import from the US (lower prices, but add ~€10k for shipping/taxes).
Market Trend:
Steady Appreciation: Clean C2s have risen ~10% annually since 2020.
Split-Window Mania: 1963 coupes now rival Ferrari 275 GTB prices in top condition.
Restomod Caution: Non-original LS-swapped cars may sell faster but lose long-term value.
Pro Tip: Verify provenance with NCRS (National Corvette Restorers Society) docs or Bloomington Gold certification for top-dollar examples.
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