A one-of-a-kind 1963 Chevrolet Corvette with deep ties to the model’s origins is set to be offered at auction, presenting collectors with a rare opportunity to acquire a deeply personal interpretation of America’s sports car. The vehicle, owned by Corvette designer Peter Brock, will be sold through Mecum on January 16 in Kissimmee, Florida.
The 1963 model year marked the debut of the second-generation Corvette, known as the C2, a redesign that fundamentally reshaped the car’s image and performance aspirations. That year is especially notable for the split rear window coupe, a striking design feature that appeared only in 1963 before being discontinued due to visibility concerns. Brock’s personal Corvette retains that distinctive split-window layout.
Brock played a central role in shaping the C2 Corvette. At just 21 years old, he created the original sketch that formed the basis for the production design under General Motors Vice President Bill Mitchell. Decades later, Brock revisited that vision with this car, reimagining what the 1963 Corvette could have been if designed with modern engineering and comfort in mind.
While the car maintains its classic silhouette, it incorporates numerous updates intended to bring it into the 21st century. Those include improved ventilation, larger windows, racing-style seats, and air conditioning, features not commonly associated with early Corvettes. Beneath the hood, the transformation is even more dramatic. Power comes from a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine producing 725 horsepower, more than double the output available when the C2 was new. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, while the suspension and braking systems have been upgraded to match the increased performance.
The Corvette was first publicly displayed in November in Chicago, where it was presented as the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Studio Concept Split Window Coupe. Unlike many concept cars, this one has remained in the personal collection of its creator and is now being offered directly by Brock himself.
Market values for C2 Corvettes vary widely. Most examples trade in the high five figures, while rare or historically significant cars can reach well into six figures, with some surpassing $500,000. Mecum has not released a pre-sale estimate for Brock’s Corvette, but given its provenance, one-off status, and extensive modernization, it is widely expected to command a premium when it crosses the auction block.
Via Mecum
Shawn Henry