Restomod Split Window Project Car Review: Is This 1963 Corvette Worth Saving?

Welcome back to the Mid-Year Mitch YouTube channel! In this episode, we dive into a project car review of a 1963 Split Window Corvette currently listed for sale on eBay. This car presents a unique opportunity to discuss its condition, potential pitfalls, and restoration possibilities.

Overview of the 1963 Split Window Corvette

The 1963 Split Window Corvette is a classic car that has garnered significant attention among collectors and enthusiasts. This particular model is being auctioned on eBay, and as of the latest update, the bidding has reached approximately $27,420. However, before you consider placing a bid, it's essential to understand the car's condition and what it entails for restoration.

Condition of the Car

Bird Cage Issues

One of the most alarming aspects of this Corvette is its bird cage, which is in what I would describe as the worst condition I've seen on a C2 Corvette. The bird cage is the structural framework that supports the body of the car, and in this case, it is severely compromised.

• Rust Damage: The car exhibits extensive rust, particularly in the door pillars and gutters. There are visible holes and significant deterioration, indicating that the bird cage may not hold up once the fiberglass body is removed.
• Structural Integrity: The car's frame is also in poor condition, with parts missing and significant rot present. This raises concerns about the overall structural integrity of the vehicle.

Body Condition

While the body of the car is mostly bare fiberglass, it has its share of issues:

• Fiberglass Damage: There are cracks and drooping sections, particularly around the front end, which appears to have been damaged during its time as a road race car.
• Missing Parts: The car is missing several key components, including vent windows and interior trim, which will need to be sourced or reproduced.

Restoration Considerations

Cost of Restoration

Restoring this 1963 Split Window Corvette will require a significant investment of time and money. Here are some key considerations:

• Parts Availability: While some parts for the bird cage are available as reproductions, many sections will need to be custom fabricated. This includes the windshield frame, top caps, and various structural components.
• Labor Intensity: The restoration process will be labor-intensive, likely taking several months to complete. Expect to spend considerable time on patching and rebuilding the bird cage and body panels.

Difficulty Level

On a scale of 1 to 10, I would rate the difficulty of restoring this car as follows:

• Overall Project: 10 out of 10 due to the extensive work required.
• Bird Cage Repair: 12 out of 10, as many parts are not readily available and will require custom work.
• Fiberglass Work: 6 out of 10, as some pieces can be patched, but significant work will still be needed.

Conclusion: Is It Worth Saving?

Despite its severe condition, I believe this 1963 Split Window Corvette is worth saving. Its historical significance and rarity make it a valuable project for the right enthusiast or restoration shop. However, potential buyers should be prepared for the extensive work and investment required to bring this car back to life.

If you're considering bidding on this car, keep in mind the challenges ahead. Restoration can be a rewarding journey, but it requires dedication, resources, and a clear understanding of what you're getting into.

I encourage anyone interested in this project to follow its journey and see how it evolves. The world of classic cars, especially iconic models like the Split Window Corvette, is always full of surprises and opportunities for restoration enthusiasts.

Thank you for joining me in this review, and I look forward to sharing more project car insights in the future!