Plymouth had a problem in its hands when it redesigned its full-size series for 1962. Though interior measurements were on par with Chevrolets and Fords being sold down the street, the trim exterior proportions did not suit the public’s perception that bigger was better. The upside was that, all things being equal, Plymouths performed better than their heavier competitors. Even at the drags, Super Stock 413s gave 409 and 406 racers fits.
Plymouth added several inches to its length to 1963 to help rectify the issue, which helped while it worked on the “true” full-size series that would appear for 1965. Featured on AutoHunter is this 1963 Belvedere two-door sedan, which embodies everything that was impressive about Super Stock Plymouths of the time. Even better, this red-over-red example sports a Keith Black 572ci Hemi, pushbutton 727 TorqueFlite, Dana 60, bucket seats, and more.
Look at this sanitary Mopar! Other than the longitudinal side trim, this Belvedere is completely unadorned—not even side mirrors to distract . . . well, perhaps I spoke too soon because a Hemi-inspired hood scoop has been added. Fifteen-inch American Racing Torq Thrust wheels are wrapped in Hoosier radials, the latter measuring 26 x 7.5 inches up front, 29 x 12.5 out back.
The cabin is furnished in red vinyl, with a pair of bucket seats replacing the original bench. Chrysler’s famous push-button automatic transmission selector is to the left of the steering wheel, while below to the right you’ll find a custom gauge stand. Other features include AM radio, Grant steering wheel, and a removed rear seat but don’t fret, racers—sure, no rear seat means less weight on the driving wheels, but two batteries reside in the trunk to rectify that.
The instrument panel consists of a 120-mph speedometer and gauges for oil pressure, coolant, alternator, and fuel. Also present under the dash and the aforementioned gauge stand are a voltage gauge, 10,000-rpm tachometer, and even more gauges for the oil pressure and coolant. The odometer currently shows 143 miles, which clearly is not a reflection of the actual miles.
The Keith Black Racing Engines Hemi measures 572ci and puts out a dyno-rated 750 horsepower with the assistance of twin 850-cfm four-barrels. Other underhood features include a 4030 racing cam, 10-quart oil pan, and four-inch Doug’s headers. With the TorqueFlite being within arm’s reach, this is among the cars that became known as “Dial-A-Winners.”
That prodigious horsepower is harnessed by a Dana 60 rear axle with 4.10 gears and limited-slip. Of course, this kind of power demands a dual exhaust system.
This Hemi-powered 1963 Plymouth Belvedere two-door sedan a substantial car that will require muscles to drive. Up to the task? Consider this a challenge—just be sure to place your bid before Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at 11:45 a.m. (PDT).
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery