Flawless 1963 LS3 C2 Convertible Is an Exercise in Good Taste

Perfect Combo

It's really no surprise that restomod Corvettes are so incredibly popular. One could argue that the C2 is the best-looking car ever conceived by any automaker, and when you throw in some modern touches, it makes for a virtually unbeatable combo. This 1963 convertible that recently showed up in the Corvette Forum Marketplace is a fantastic example of this phenomenon, mainly thanks to its carefully curated list of upgrades.

Photos: Corvette Forum Marketplace

No Expenses Spared

This build was rather extensive, and according to the seller, "no expenses spared." That term gets thrown around quite a bit these days, but in this case, the pictures don't lie. The seller started out with a rather clean example, then proceeded to do a complete frame-off job on the '63 that involved replacing or repairing every single nut and bolt from the ground up. 

Photos: Corvette Forum Marketplace

>>Join the conversation about this LS3 swapped C2 Convertible right here in Corvette Forum.

Modern Power

Of course, originality wasn't the goal here. That much is evident when you lift the hood and see the modern LS3 powerplant. The newer mill has been treated to a slew of upgrades, including a Texas Speed Stage 2 cam kit with new seals, springs, timing gear, and ARP timing bolts. Hiding under a beautiful custom carbon fiber cover, the small block dyno'd at just over 400 horsepower at the wheels, which is enough. 

Photos: Corvette Forum Marketplace

>>Join the conversation about this LS3 swapped C2 Convertible right here in Corvette Forum.

Riding in Comfort

Sitting behind the LS is a Silver Sport TKO 500 five-speed manual transmission, which is plenty capable of handling those extra ponies while also keeping the revs down while you're cruising on the highway. The classic Corvette rides on a complete RideTech coilover suspension, which only adds to the comfort level, and can stop in a hurry with Wilwood disc brakes at all four corners. 

Photos: Corvette Forum Marketplace

>>Join the conversation about this LS3 swapped C2 Convertible right here in Corvette Forum.

Additional Upgrades

There is a slew of additional modern upgrades designed to make this '63 a reliable and fun driver. They include things like a Dewitts LS radiator with dual SPAL electric fans, Power steering with an upgraded steering box by Borgeson, Vintage air A/C system using the original controls, Detroit Speed electric headlight actuators with projector LED headlights, and a Detroit Speed windshield wiper system with a washer fluid pump. 

Photos: Corvette Forum Marketplace

>>Join the conversation about this LS3 swapped C2 Convertible right here in Corvette Forum.

Real Winner

A brand new and mostly original interior rounds out the package, and sports goodies including a Flaming River tilt column, Dynamat everywhere, and a retro Bluetooth radio. The classic 'Vette rolls on a set of timeless American Racing Torq Thrust wheels, which are wrapped in Nitto 555 tires. Top it off with some gorgeous coats of Silver Blue paint, and you've got a real winner in our book. 

Photos: Corvette Forum Marketplace

>>Join the conversation about this LS3 swapped C2 Convertible right here in Corvette Forum.

One That Got Away

It's no surprise that this beautiful and incredibly tasteful restomod came and went pretty quickly here in the Marketplace. But even though it was the one that got away, there are always plenty of great Corvettes to choose from. So be sure and head over here to scope out all the awesome offerings currently up for grabs! 

Photos: Corvette Forum Marketplace

>>Join the conversation about this LS3 swapped C2 Convertible right here in Corvette Forum.

For help with service on your Vette, check out the how to section of CorvetteForum.com