1963 CORVETTE " FUELIE" - CALIFORNIA BLACK PLATE - NUMBERS MATCH / FACTORY HDTP

Price: - Item location: Pleasanton, California, United States
Description:

1963 Chevrolet Corvette #'S MATCH "FUELIE" CONVT. / HARDTOP



1963 Chevrolet Corvette "Fuelie" Convertible
327 c.i. / 360hp Fuel Injected 4-Speed Convertible
Genuine Rochester Fuel-Injected L84 V8, Numbers Matching 4-Speed
Factory Ermine White / Red Interior / White Convertible & Hardtop
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Summary
Introduced for the 1963 model year, the C2 generation of Corvette was an instant hit. The car carried over the excellent engines from 1962, but the remainder of the car was new, with now iconic styling and independent rear suspension. In 1963 and 1964, all cars were equipped with 327cid engines, and the most powerful of these was the 327c.i. / 360hp fitted with Rochester fuel injection. This option commanded a significant premium; over 10% of the base price of the car and, over the years, has become one of the more sought after engines in an early 60's Corvette.
The 1963 Sting Ray was not only a commercial success, but was hailed by the automotive press as one of the best Corvettes of all time. It was praised almost unanimously for its handling, road adhesion, and unrelenting horsepower. Car Life magazine presented its annual Award for Engineering Excellence on the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray. It was noted to have a significant edge over past models in both traction and handling because the new independent rear suspension reduced wheel spin considerably compared to the live-axle cars. Chevy's small-block V-8 engine, which was recognized as being the most consistent component of past Corvette performance, was rated by car buffs as being even better in Sting Rays.
"THE NUMBERS”
VIN # 3 08 67 S 109244
3 = 1963
08 = Body Series: Corvette
67 = Convertible
6 = Assembled in St. Louis
Last 6 Digits: 109244 (Production Series)
ENGINE
F 02 12 RF
F = Flint, MI casting / production
02 = February
12 = 12th Day
RF = 327c.i. / 360hp Fuel Injected, High Lift Cam & Manual Transmission
Note: Date of Production: February production ended with car # 109814 indicating this car was produced in very early March, 1963 with an engine carrying a production date / stamping of 2/12/63 - Correct sequence for numbers matching
327ci, 360hp Engine (fuel injection) (L84)
- Utilized a 11.25:1 compression ratio, large port heads with a high speed valve train, mechanical lifters, domed aluminum pistons, special performance camshafts, and bigger oil pans that hold 5 quarts of oil
- Featured a larger aluminum intake manifold for better fuel flow
- The tachometer included a buzzer on the red-line
- Could only be purchased with either a 3 speed manual or a 4 speed close ratio manual
1963 Dimensions Convertible
Wheelbase (in.) 98.0
Track Front / Rear (in.) 56.3 / 57
Length (in.) 175.3
Width (in.) 69.6
Height (in.) 49.8
Frontal Area (in.) 19.3
Ground Clearance (in.) 5.0
Curb Weight (lbs.) 3,030
Weight Dist. F/R 48 / 52
Fuel Capacity (gal.) 20.0
This particular car is equipped with a factory, functional AM radio, matching numbers 360hp fuel injected engine, and 4-speed transmission. It was manufactured on, or about, Tuesday the 12th of February, 1963, with VIN # 30867S109244. The Corvette carries a corresponding (matching) engine number of F0212RF decoding to a production date of 2/12/63, the same date code as the production date. This car has been in California and carries black/yellow license plates to support its long time California lineage.
Over the years, the car's long term owners have resisted the temptation to make significant changes to the cars original configuration and it remains in the category of a "survivor” with the benefit of cosmetic upgrades (seemingly one re-spray and improvements to the interior and convertible top). For the last several years, the car has been part of an enthusiast collection, and driven regularly by the technicians who maintained the owner's cars. However, despite being driven occasionally, the Corvette has accumulated very minimal miles during the past few years.
The Corvette is, and has been, registered in California with a current expiration date (for California buyers) of February, 2017. The car has a clear, transferable title and the VIN plate, engine numbers, and other original components remain in place and appear to be unaltered and original to the car.
Cosmetically, this car is best described as a nice, unmodified original. Unfortunately, many of the early C1 & C2 Corvettes have been over-restored and finding an original example has become increasingly difficult. While this car shows imperfections that are to be expected with an original example, it also has something that simply cannot be duplicated with new, aftermarket components and complete disassembly of the car…a lovely original patina. The paint, while older, shows well with high gloss sheen. The panels are free from major damage although some characteristic fine crazing can be seen in the front around the headlight areas. The doors, hood and rear convertible boot cover close solidly and fit well for this era Corvette.
The exterior trim is complete including the "Fuel Injected” badges that are prominently displayed on the front fenders. Side windows roll up/down freely and the front electrically operated headlights are functional and can be seen in the "up” position in the photographs on this listing. The chrome is very good, complete and best described as "California quality” not showing the typical rust or considerable loss of brilliance that can be seen on cars that have spent time in inclement weather zones around the country.
The interior presents very well, indeed. The upholstery is excellent, as is the dashboard. The carpets are very good, and instruments and switches are clear and appear to be original to the car. The car is fitted with front seat belts. The mileage, while stated as TMU (Total Miles Unknown) due to the age of the Corvette, may well be correct at 27,538 (127,538) based on the overall condition of the car and interior. The door panels are excellent. The rear carpeted areas behind the front seats is in very good condition.
The engine compartment is clean and has been very well maintained. Original factory finishes remain on the engine, and the ignition shielding and other components remain in place. The car is still fitted with a proper Rochester fuel injection unit. The underside is clean and free from excess accumulation of fluids.
Mechanically, the car is strong. It starts immediately and idles well. The Corvette has excellent performance, shifts properly through all of the gears with very good "synchros” in all gears, including 1st gear. The clutch engages without slipping or fuss, the brakes stop the car straight and sure and the Corvette steers straight without wandering.
With the abundance of over-restored Corvettes, it has become increasingly difficult to locate complete, "honest” examples of original cars with numbers matching engines. This car would make a wonderful occasional driver, show car and, based on its desirably, has the potential for continued appreciation as a usable investment.
Thank you,
Classic Cars Ltd.
925-846-1451

Specifications:
Body Type / Style:Convertible / Hardtop
Exterior Color:Ermine White
Interior Color:Red
Engine:V8
Transmission: 4 Speed Manual
Mileage:27,538
Drive:Rear
Doors:2

Equipment:
Aluminum Valve Covers
California Lic & Reg
Cocoa Mats
Convertible Boot Cover
Convertible Top
Factory 4-Speed
Factory AM Radio
Factory Bucket Seats
Factory Center Console
Factory Gauges
Factory Gauges
Factory Hardtop
Fuel Injection
Full Instrumentation
Heater / Defroster
Local California "Survivor"
Matching Numbers Engine
Runs / Drives Very Well
SEE DESCRIPTION.....
Seat Belts (Front)


Terms & Conditions
  • Buyers outside of California will be responsible for a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd.
  • The vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere. We reserve the right to end the auction at anytime. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846 1451.
  • Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction.
  • Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California.
  • To avoid shipping the title with the car to our out of state buyers, we mail the title via Priority Mail.
  • While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location.
  • We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to delete your bid.

Thank You & Happy Bidding
Classic Cars Ltd.

On Jun-24-16 at 07:11:25 PDT, seller added the following information:

Sellers: Delight buyers. Get your own map of past buyers.

On Jun-26-16 at 12:49:44 PDT, seller added the following information:

We have had several questions for Corvette enthusiasts and those concerned with ‘numbers matching.’ To clarify this particular cars condition, it has a numbers correct engine (refer to photos on the listing). The car came out of a collection of vehicles and is being offered as part of that collection as a result of the unfortunate personal circumstances of the owner. While retaining many correct engine bay and other component parts, no attempt is being made to represent this car as a 100% numbers matching with all original components including brake master cylinder, replacement / wear items (tires, tune-up parts, and other parts).

The Corvette has received the benefit of what appears to be one re-paint and other cosmetic improvements. The convertible top shows well, the hardtop is in solid condition but in need of some rubber seals trim (provided). Additionally, years ago, the car received two additional rear tail lights (one on either side) to upgrade its appearance. While no totally original, the car has a nice look that is not apparent to the majority of people that see the car.

The ’63 Fuelie is not priced in the six figure range as a car with 100% matching numbers / components would be, but offers a nice, original appearance, numbers correct engine and many other parts. Inspections are encouraged to confirm the details of the car as are telephone calls.

Thank you for your interest in this special example.

Classic Cars Ltd.

925-846-1451