C2 Corvette Styling Changes over the Years
Even today, most consider the C2 Corvette to be the most beautiful ever built. Here's how to tell them apart!
1. 1963: Birth of the Split Window Stingray
Most consider the 1963 Corvette the most significant ever built, and for good reason. The changes that America's sports car underwent in its second generation are nothing less than revolutionary. Nothing on the planet looked more futuristic than the new 'Vette when it debuted, and arguably nothing was more aerodynamic. The most distinguishing feature of the '63 is, of course, the split rear window - a one year only styling exercise. The hidden quad headlights, coupe doors cut into the roof, and fastback design are additional highlights.
Exterior color options in 1963 included Tuxedo Black, Silver Blue, Daytona Blue, Riverside Red, Saddle Tan, Ermine White, and Sebring Silver. Interior options consisted of Black, Red, Saddle, and Dark Blue. Convertible soft tops came in Black, White, and Beige.
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2. 1964: Evolution, not Revolution
As revolutionary as the all-new 1963 Corvette was, it only makes sense that GM would only make small, evolutionary styling changes in 1964. The biggest of which, of course, was the elimination of the split window. Even proponents of the design admitted that it came with drawbacks, namely reduced visibility. Chevy also got rid of the fake hood vents, but retained the hood indentations. On the coupe, the formerly closed off air vent on the driver's side received a small fan and became functional.
Exterior and soft top colors remained unchanged from 1963. Silver and White interior color options were added, however.
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3. 1965: Bring on the Big Block
To make room for a new 396 big block option, the 1965 Corvette received a new hood with a "bubble" design and functional vents on the sides. Interestingly enough, a number of small block Corvettes received the big block hood due to supply issues. Big block cars are easy to spot, however, thanks to "396 Turbo Jet" side emblems.
New exterior color options for 1965 included Nassau Blue, Glen Green, Milano Maroon, Silver Pearl, Rally Red, and Goldwood Yellow. Soft top and interior colors remained unchanged from 1964.
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4. 1966: Getting Colorful
With American in the midst of big block mania, styling changes were few in 1966. The "Corvette Sting Ray" badging script was revised, giving a more elongated, taller style. The new script appeared only on the front of the hood on the driver's side and on the right rear of the car. Engine displacement, including the new 427, appeared on front fender mounted badges.
Several new exterior colors were added for 1966, including Laguna Blue, Trophy Blue, Mosport Green, and Sunfire Yellow. Bright Blue and White/Blue interior options were added, though soft top colors remained unchanged.
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5. 1967: Last of the Greats
The C2 Corvette had proven to be an unmitigated success, but monumental change was once again on the horizon. That, of course, included the dawn of ugly smog regulations. For these reasons, there were no styling changes of note in 1967. Chevy did revise the color offerings, however. Buyers could now opt for exterior shades of Marina Blue, Lynndale Blue, Elkhart Blue, Marlboro Maroon, and Goodwood Green. A Teal Blue soft top was also offered in 1967 only.
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