Get a detailed rundown on the full-sized cars at Chevrolet for 1963, including the engines, in this original dealer film.

This 1963 Chevrolet movie, entitled The Car Ahead and focused on the full-size line, includes considerably more nuts-and-bolts info than the the typical factory-to-dealer film of its time. For example, we get a thorough rundown on the Chevy engine lineup, starting with the inline six, completely redesigned for ’63. Next are the familiar 283 and 327 cubic-inch V8s, but the engine that gets the glory here is a new version of the 409 CID V8 with hydraulic valve lifters and 340 hp, which could be paired with a manual or Powerglide transmission.

Here, the Turbo-Fire 409 is touted as a valuable safety feature—for zooming out of trouble in difficult driving situations, they want us to know, rather than into it. “Where the quickest of quick power is an absolute necessity,” the announcer explains. However, the more powerful (and even safer, hmm) versions of the 409 aren’t even mentioned. We can assume Chevrolet determined that these more finicky V8s with their solid-lifter cams and dual four-barrel carburetors weren’t really intended for ordinary civilian buyers.

All three trim levels are covered here: Biscayne, Bel Air, and Impala (in ’63 the Super Sport was not a stand-alone model but an option package, RPO Z03). Considerable attention is given to the variety of fabrics and colors offered, but unfortunately for us, the color has washed out so we can’t really appreciate this part of the show. Sorry about that. With these old factory films, it goes with the territory. Video follows.