The C2 Corvette: A Legend in the Making

The 1963 and 1964 C2 Corvettes all had 327 cu. in. engines. This standard engine produced 250 horsepower (186 kW). Optional modifications, including fuel injection, produced up to 375 horsepower or 280 kW. In 1965, the standard engine was the 396 cu. in. ?big block? V-8, which produced 425 horsepower or 317 kW. For the 1966/67 model years, Chevrolet installed the large 427 cu. in. V-8, which produced 450 horsepower or 321 kW.

Specifications

Engines: 1963-64, 327 cu. in. V-8; 1965: 396 cu. in. V-8; 1966-67: 427 cu. in. V-8. Transmissions: 2-speed automatic and a 3- or 4-speed manual. The C2 Corvette car was made by the Chevrolet Division of General Motors Corporation in St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.A. Body styles were a 2-door convertible and a 2-door coupe.

Exterior

The exterior of this distinctive Corvette originally had a distinguishing split rear window. However, the window was only split for one year due to safety concerns and design considerations. The original C2 Corvette also had non-operating hood vents. These, too, were discontinued after the first year of production. Alloy wheels and side exhaust pipes were available options.

Electronics

The C2 Corvette of the early 1960s was available with an optional electronic ignition. This ignition, called the Delcotronic after the maker Delco, was a breakerless, pulse-triggered unit first seen on 1963 model Pontiacs.

Brakes

For improved stopping power, 1965 saw the introduction of disc brakes on all four wheels of the C2 Corvette.

Accessories

Accessories available for your C2 Corvette are many. They include many types of exterior improvements like spoilers, front-end bras and car covers. You can also buy engine covers, wheels and pin stripping kits. For interior accessories, you can get gauges (volts, oil and fuel pressure, boost, etc.), organizers, mats, seat covers and mirrors. Be sure to also shop for engine accessories like part covers, exhaust systems and transmissions.

Financing

Thinking of purchasing a C2 Corvette? If you have the cash, that’s the best. Otherwise your alternatives include borrowing from a bank, credit union or through a dealership (some have financing departments). You may wish to lease a C2 Corvette, and if you own a home, you can borrow on a home equity loan.

Insurance

Some companies specialize in Corvette and other collectible car insurance. Search the Internet or your phone book for them. You may be surprised to learn how reasonable insuring your new C2 Corvette may be. This is because, as opposed to everyday use vehicles, you will probably drive it simply for pleasure.

User Tech Tips

You can maintain your C2 Corvette yourself, even if it is a few simple things. For example, you can buy a vile of touch-up paint and touch up the exterior paint where it may have been damaged by contact with debris. If you are handy with electronics, you can upgrade the music system. Under the hood, you can install chrome parts, like an air cleaner cover or valve covers.