Award-Winning Corvette Split Winodw Restomod 525hp LS3 V8 Auto Art Morrison

The 1963 Corvette Split Window Sting Ray occupies a singular place in American automotive history. It marked the debut of the Sting Ray coupe and remains the only year Chevrolet committed fully to the split rear glass, a bold design decision that was never repeated. That one-year-only styling choice has since elevated the Split Window into blue-chip territory. This example, expertly restored and improved by Lundquist Restorations in Salt Lake City, Utah takes that iconic foundation and reinterprets it through a no-expense-spared restomod approach, blending modern performance and craftsmanship with the unmistakable character that defines the original design, a level of execution that earned multiple awards and recognition at the 2022 Salt Lake City Autorama.

The build began with an original 1963 Split Window Coupe body that was already in excellent condition, providing the ideal foundation for a project of this caliber. Over the course of nearly three years, every surface and structural detail was carefully refined, with extensive research guiding reinforcement of known C2 stress points including the rear tub, inner front fenders, cowl area, and the original toolbox location in the floor. The cowl was fully cleaned up and reworked to house a hidden wiper motor, eliminating visual clutter while retaining full functionality. Finished in Firecracker Red, the exterior presents with exceptional depth and clarity across every panel, polished to a flawless, show-quality finish that highlights the Split Window's dramatic curves and sharp body lines. A subtle detail includes a custom front chin spoiler that enhances visual balance without detracting from the original design. Forged Schott Mach 5 wheels, measuring 18" up front and 20" in the rear are wrapped in 235mm front and 295mm rear Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires with a custom red stripe.

Power comes from a brand-new Chevrolet Performance LS3 producing 525 horsepower, paired with a 4L70E 4-speed automatic transmission. The drivetrain is supported by CPP engine and transmission controllers along with a SuperMatic torque converter featuring a 3000 to 3400 stall range. Cooling is handled by a custom Griffin Performance radiator, while custom stainless headers feed into a bespoke exhaust system built by Dr. Gas. Underneath, the car is built on a brand-new Art Morrison chassis, dramatically transforming the driving dynamics compared to a stock C2 platform. Suspension is handled by Strange adjustable coilovers at all four corners, paired with a Strange driveshaft and a Ford 9" rear fitted with 3.73 gearing and a limited-slip differential. Power four-wheel Wilwood disc brakes and power rack-and-pinion steering provide confident road manners, and a custom fuel cell was fabricated specifically to integrate cleanly with the Morrison chassis.

The interior was executed by Dale Hancock Upholstery and delivers a refined, cohesive cockpit that blends original Sting Ray design cues with modern comfort and technology. Custom bucket seats are trimmed in saddle leather with black suede inserts, matched by coordinating door panels and a bespoke saddle leather center console. The original dash bezel remains in place but was extensively modified, with factory openings filled and smoothed for a cleaner presentation. Dakota Digital gauges provide modern accuracy while maintaining a period-appropriate appearance. Additional features include a Flaming River tilt steering column, a custom 15" billet steering wheel, Vintage Air climate control for modern A/C, German square-weave carpeting throughout, and a Custom Autosound receiver that retains a stock appearance. A B&M automatic shifter with a leather knob and custom saddle leather boot completes the cabin. A bespoke custom audio system was added by Miranda Built, utilizing JL Audio components with Bluetooth connectivity.

This 1963 Corvette Split Window restomod represents what happens when one of America's most important automotive designs is reimagined without shortcuts or compromise. It preserves the unmistakable identity and visual impact of the Split Window while delivering modern performance, comfort, and reliability at a level few builds ever achieve. The car is accompanied by a comprehensive photo album documenting the restoration process. This is not a tribute or a casual update. It is a fully realized, high-end interpretation of Chevrolet's most iconic Corvette, built to be driven and appreciated at the highest level.

Key Highlights

* One-year-only Split Window coupe
* Professional frame-off, rotisserie restoration
* Salt Lake City Autorama award winner
* Chevrolet Performance 6.2L LS3 V8 (525hp)
* 4L70E 4-speed automatic transmission
* Ford 9" rear axle with 3.73 gearing
* Limited-slip differential
* All new Art Morrison chassis
* Strange adjustable coilovers
* Wilwood power four-wheel disc brakes
* Power rack-and-pinion steering
* Modern air conditioning
* 18" front and 20" rear Schott Mach 5 wheels
* 235mm front and 295mm rear Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires
* Full custom leather interior by Dale Hancock
* JL Audio speakers and amplifier
* Bluetooth connectivity
* Custom Autosound headunit
* Dakota Digital gauges