Image Credit: Mecum.One of the rarest and most desirable first-generation Corvettes is preparing to cross the auction block later this month. Mecum Auctions will offer a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Z06/N03 during its Monterey sale on August 15, giving collectors a chance to bid on one of just 63 factory-built "Tanker" split-window coupes.The Sebring Silver Corvette combines Chevrolet's legendary Z06 Special Performance Package with the ultra-rare N03 36-gallon fuel tank, a combination developed specifically with endurance racing in mind. Even among the already scarce 1963 Z06 models, examples equipped with the oversized fuel tank rank among the most collectible.This particular Corvette also arrives with an impressive concours pedigree, having earned Bloomington Gold Certification, multiple NCRS Top Flight awards, and MCACN Triple Diamond recognition following a meticulous restoration.AdvertisementAdvertisementWith matching-numbers driveline components, extensive documentation, and factory race-inspired hardware, the split-window coupe represents one of the finest surviving examples of Chevrolet's original factory-built competition Corvette.One Of Just 63 Factory "Tanker" CorvettesImage Credit: Mecum.Chevrolet built only 199 Corvettes with the Z06 Special Performance Package for the 1963 model year. Of those, just 63 received the optional N03 36-gallon fuel tank, making this one of the rarest factory configurations ever offered on a C2 Corvette.The N03 option became known as the "Tanker" package thanks to its massive fiberglass fuel tank. Designed for endurance racing, the larger tank allowed drivers to complete longer stints between fuel stops during events such as SCCA competition.The Corvette was originally delivered to Dexter Chevrolet in Detroit, Michigan, and retains documentation, including its original window sticker and an NCRS Shipping Data Report confirming its factory specifications.Matching-Numbers Fuel-Injected 327 V8Image Credit: Mecum.Power comes from the car's original matching-numbers RF-code 327-cubic-inch small-block V8. Factory-rated at 360 horsepower, the high-performance engine features Rochester mechanical fuel injection, high-compression internals, solid lifters, and performance cylinder heads.AdvertisementAdvertisementAs with every 1963 Z06, the engine is paired with a mandatory four-speed manual transmission and a Positraction limited-slip rear axle.The drivetrain helped establish the Z06 as one of the quickest production Corvettes of its era and made it a serious contender in American road racing during the early 1960s.Built To Go RacingThe Z06 package transformed the Corvette into a far more capable competition machine than the standard Sting Ray. Chevrolet equipped it with heavy-duty suspension components, including stiffer springs, upgraded shocks, and a thicker front sway bar.The braking system also received significant upgrades with metallic brake linings, finned power-assisted brakes, and a dual-circuit master cylinder to improve durability during extended track sessions.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe package cost $1,818 in 1963, nearly half the price of a base Corvette coupe, underscoring just how serious Chevrolet was about creating a factory-backed performance car.Restored To Award-Winning StandardsImage Credit: Mecum.This Corvette underwent a concours-quality restoration by Verillo Motor Car Co. in Clifton Park, New York. The restoration has earned numerous honors, including Bloomington Gold Certification, multiple NCRS Top Flight awards at both chapter and regional events, MCACN Triple Diamond recognition, and a Concours Gold Certificate.Finished in Sebring Silver over a Dark Blue interior, the car also features optional three-bar spinner hubcaps. One particularly unusual option for such a competition-focused Corvette is its factory AM/FM radio.One Of The Most Collectible C2 CorvettesSplit-window 1963 Corvettes are already among the most desirable American collector cars, but genuine Z06/N03 "Tanker" models occupy an even more exclusive tier.AdvertisementAdvertisementBetween the limited production, matching-numbers drivetrain, extensive documentation, and award-winning restoration, this example checks nearly every box serious Corvette collectors look for. Its appearance at Mecum Monterey is likely to attract significant interest when it crosses the block on August 15.If you had the opportunity to own one classic Corvette, would you choose this ultra-rare factory Z06 "Tanker" or a different high-performance Sting Ray? Do you think originality and documentation matter more than modifications when it comes to collectible classics? Let us know in the comments.If you want more stories like this, follow Guessing Headlights on Yahoo so you don't miss what's coming next.
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