The Avanti II was the spinoff of the car with the same name that couldn’t save Studebaker. The original Avanti was only around for the 1963 and part of the 1964 model years before the company stopped building cars in the U.S. Beginning in 1965, and after buying the name and leftover inventory, two former Stude dealers kept the car alive – well into the 21st Century. This 1978 Avanti II runs well (but stops poorly) and needs cosmetic refreshing. Located in Prineville, Oregon, it can be had here on craigslist for $5,500.
The reborn Avanti II looked like just the original car but used hardware from Chevrolet to get the job done (including the chassis once the leftovers were all gone). These were largely hand-built automobiles, and the 142 produced in 1978 was fairly typical. The seller says this Studebaker outcast has a 350 cubic inch V8 with a TH-400 automatic transmission. No mention is made of numbers-matching,
Fiberglass bodies were still in play with the Avanti II, and this 1978 version has the rectangular bezels of the 1964 Avanti rather than the circular ones from 1963. We’re told the car runs well (it may only have 44,000 miles), but the brakes prevent it from being roadworthy. The aftermarket wheels are a product of the 1980s that you may want to swap out for something more like the originals.
The paint is beyond saving, so you’ll have to work a little on the body before applying a fresh white finish. The interior is also a bit amiss, and I’d go with leather rather than the fuzzy stuff this car apparently came with when new. The seller has another project he/she is eyeing, so this car has to go to help fund it (need to suggest a trade). So, as the seller says, “bring a trailer and cash.” A thumbs up to “Curvette” for yet another great tip!
I’d be more interested in that Datsun 620 behind it.