There’s a feeling you get from certain cars that just seems to indicate that they’re loved. While nothing is certain when viewing a vehicle via a computer screen, there’s no denying that classics like this 1969 Studebaker Avanti II have been showered with new parts and updates that should make it a near turnkey experience to own and operate a vintage car. The seller emphasizes how regularly the Avanti is used, which should help reinforce that the changes he’s made have yielded a classic the next owner can begin enjoying immediately. Find the Avanti II here on craigslist for $17,500.
Thanks to Barn Finds reader Tony Primo for the find. The Avanti story has multiple twists and turns with a common theme around constantly changing ownership groups, with many of them struggling to keep the company out of bankruptcy. The early Avantis with direct ties to the Studebaker assembly line and company leadership are the most sought after, not only because early cars are generally more collectible, but also because examples like this one are far prettier than what would come later. The seller speculates the paint is an older respray job that appears to be holding up decently enough.
The interior shows signs of age, with splits in the seat upholstery on both buckets. The carpets are in fair condition and the same goes for the dash and center console. The seller notes that this Avanti was purchased out of long-term storage about five years ago in Arizona, and that it was sold new in California before moving to Tuscon and then eventually back to Carlsbad, where it currently resides. The seller claims it is a very reliable driver and is highly original, right down to the GM-sourced 327 under the hood.
The Borg-Warner “Power Shift” automatic transmission has been rebuilt, and the seller notes it will come with a balance of the original warranty. He estimates over $30,000 has been spent maintaining this Avanti II, with new parts and recent repairs including a new carburetor, electronic ignition, starter, alternator, gas tank, fuel lines, full exhaust, suspension and brakes. That parts list should put most anyone at ease that this Avanti II is as good as the seller claims it to be, and it’s almost certainly worthy of the $17,500 asking price.
There’s an unconnected hose hanging off the cowl. Does that mean the air conditioning is inoperable?
Looks like a heater hose to me.
It may be a heater hose…
If I see the hose you are looking at. It is the windshield wiper fluid line going into the upper firewall/cowl for the wipers.
Heater core probably leaking
For sure the heater core is bypassed.
30k in for 17.5 return? Don’t make economic sense to me. I’m a sucker for the avanti. 60 years later it still is a head turner. Would be a player if it had be a 4 speed.
Sadly, that’s generally how it works out. Some folks get lucky and actually make money flipping cars, but it’s rare.
The unconnected red hose is for the heater core. Probably didn’t need to replace it since it was in AZ.
The simplicity in style is SO very appealing in an age of over complicated lookalikes. But when a car is in such unusually clean condition, seat upholstery splits and disconnected heater hoses become noticeable.
I’d consider this but first thing I would do is add a 5speed manual and a third pedal. The 327 is a sweet engine. Cool styling and a motor with some juice makes a great ride.