History

The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray Split Window holds a special place in automotive history because it marked the introduction of the second-generation (C2) Corvette, built to transform the car from a stylish cruiser into a true high-performance sports car inspired by racing and Bill Mitchell’s Stingray concept. The split rear window was created as a bold design statement to echo the car’s sharp, aerodynamic lines and futuristic vision, symbolizing innovation and aggression rather than practicality. However, the central divider severely limited rear visibility, leading to safety complaints from drivers and engineers. As a result, Chevrolet removed the split window after just one year, making the 1963 model the only Corvette ever produced with this feature and turning it into one of the most iconic and collectible American sports cars ever made.