Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance: 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine

This comes on a similar note to the Lincoln Indianapolis Boano Coupe we featured a few weeks ago. This 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine was created by, Italian design house, Pinninfarina for the 1963 Paris Auto Show. Those of you who know Corvettes know that 1963 was the first year of the iconic C2 Sting Ray. While I personally believe the Stingray is the best looking Vette of all time, especially the ’63 split window coupe, the Rondine’s Italian style is breathtaking.

The Corvette Rondine was the top-spec Sting Ray underneath, with the fuel injected 327ci V8 under its hood making 360hp. There is one key difference, though, and that is the body of the car. The Rondine had a steel body whereas the Sting Ray’s was made of fiberglass. This resulted in the Rondine being a bit heavier than the standard Corvette, however I’d say it is worth it for those beautiful curves.

The Corvette Rondine marks another fantastic example of an American car being fitted with Italian styling. Whether the Rondine looks better than the Sting Ray is entirely subjective, but it certainly is a unique and interesting automobile. The Corvette Rondine recently sold for a hefty $1.6 million back at the 2008 Barret Jackson Auction, and its value is certain to keep appreciating. It is always a pleasure to see such a stunning car as this, and the 2013 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance was the second time I’ve had the pleasure of seeing this car in person. Enjoy the photos.

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Rondine

-Nick Walker

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