Not all Corvettes are created equal, especially when it comes to rareness or collectability.
That’s why when Todd Willoughby, owner of American Street Machines, called to say he had a 1963 big tank, fuel-injected Z06 split window coupe in for maintenance, we couldn’t get there fast enough.
While we’ve written several articles featuring split-window coupes through the years, the chance to see a 1963 tanker Z06 in person is a rare event indeed. In fact, several Corvette experts believe only 50 of the original 63′ “big tank” models of the Z06 are still in existence.
Fortunate for us, Tom Beuglas, Southeast Chapter President of the National Corvette Restorers Society (NCRS), was also on hand to point out what makes this 1963 so special.
Big Tank Option
Rod Worley – Editor – Tom, can you point out a few areas underneath this Z06 Corvette that stand out to you?
Tom Beuglas – NCRS Southeast Chapter President – Sure, Rod. First, let’s start with the massive 36.5-gallon fiberglass gas tank that stretches from the rear bumper to the back of the driver and passenger seats.
You can see how the fiberglass tank takes up the entire back area, plus where they would typically install the jack.
Also, you can see where they cut through the bottom of the floor to join the gas tank to the main line. The 36.5-gallon tank was crucial for success in endurance racing.
Z06 Suspension
Tom Beuglas – NCRS Southeast Chapter President – It’s important to remember that the 1963 model was a major leap forward for Corvette. It was an entirely new platform, new design, and the first year for independent rear suspension.
The design utilized a transverse leaf spring that G.M. continued to use until the 2020 C8.
While we’re underneath the car, you can see the special thicker seven-leaf spring in the rear. The standard suspension for ’63 was a nine-leaf configuration.
Also, you notice the heavy-duty rear shocks with the cap at the top that looks like a thick rubber washer. These were unique to the Z06 suspension.
Upfront, you’ve got more heavy-duty shocks and a larger front sway bar to round out this package.
Unique Braking System
Tom Beuglas – NCRS Southeast Chapter President – For brakes, the Z06 has dual-circuit master cylinders with a cadmium gold plated brake booster cap.
Each wheel had metallic brake linings, with a little wider shoes and an air cooling system. The brakes had vents in the front to pull the air in.
They had a fan as part of the brake hub assembly. The concept was the air would come in the scoop in the front, be removed by the fan, and then come out of the screened area in the back.
There are also four holes in the front of the drum to help dissipate heat, which you can’t see in the photos. And they’re unique to the Z06 as well.
’63 Model Year Stands Out
Rod Worley – Editor – Todd, congrats on getting an ultra-rare Corvette like this one in for maintenance. That’s a vote of confidence that speaks volumes about your level of service, reputation, and standing in the collector car community.
So, what do you like about the 1963 model year for Corvette?
Todd Willoughby – Owner of American Street Machines – Thanks, Rod. You’re right; those who own rare Corvettes and other collectible American muscle cars are very particular about whom they trust to fix and maintain them.
As far as the ’63 edition, it stands out for many reasons in the brand’s long history. Compared with previous Corvettes, the Sting Ray was improved almost every way.
Performance, handling, and ride comfort were better than the previous generation.
Everyone points to the iconic split window in the coupe, but they often overlook the increase in horsepower for this model year. All 1963 cars had 327 cubic inch engines, which made 250 hp standard, with optional versions that made 300 hp, 340 hp, and 360 hp.
The most powerful version, of course, was the 360-horsepower Rochester fuel-injected engine we have here today. Also, remember that Chevrolet realized the Ford Cobra was real competition on the race track.
G.M. had to step up their game or get left behind. The ’63 and especially the Z06 option shows Zora Arkus-Duntov’s commitment to performance.
American Styling & Performance
The 1963 split window coupe is considered by many to be a hallmark of American automotive design.
There is something to be said about the tapering roof line that blends into the rear deck in one continuous flow. The boat-tail tapered back, no doubt, tips its cap to roadsters of the 1930s.
At the same time, the iconic split window is reminiscent of the Bugatti Atlantique and the Alfa Romeo Bertone BAT. The sublime wrap-over door feature takes the overall concept to the next level for a G.M. design.
But, make no mistake. The visceral, seat-of-the-pants performance has always sold America’s Sports Car.
In that performance arena, the 1963 big-tank Z06 optioned Corvette will always be remembered.
We consider ourselves fortunate to have spent time taking in the nuances of this rare ’63 big tank Z06 at American Street Machines. It was quite the experience.
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