When the Avanti debuted in the Fall of 1962, it was supposed to be the “halo car” that would put Studebaker back on the map. But production delays and a lack of overall sales led to its demise in less than two years when the company stopped producing automobiles in the U.S. Just 4,643 Avanti’s were built for the 1963 and 1964 model years, with 2,282 being the non-supercharged editions (called the R1) assembled in 1963. The seller’s car might be a nice survivor, though at 180,000 miles, it’s bound to have had some work.
As the story goes, the fiberglass-bodied Avanti was conceived on a cocktail napkin in 1961. And went from concept to finished product in only about 18 months. Though the Avanti never achieved the success Studebaker was hoping for (sales of 20,000 units per year), the car lived on after Studebaker quit producing vehicles altogether in 1966. The Avanti II was in production from 1965 to 2006 through a series of different owners who relied on powertrains from other manufacturers to keep it going.
The seller says this is an original ’63 Avanti and the turquoise is the correct color for the year. Often when we see an Avanti in this hue, the interior is in a contrasting off-white. In this case, the upholstery is black leather which could have been redone given the high mileage on the machine. This Stude has the company’s stalwart 289 cubic inch V8, but not the one with the supercharger (rated horsepower would have been about 210 vs. 275). We’re told the car runs well and sports like new tires. Oddly, there is no power steering on this Avanti.
When not in use, we’re told this Studebaker has lived in a temp-controlled garage. The seller has acquired another car (vintage, too?), and a lack of space prompts this sale. Located in Palm Springs, California, this classic is available here on craigslist for $31,000. Though these cars turn up for sale more often than you think, how many of them could be left in this condition?
Another seller leaves so much to the imagination.
…”car is running, radio working as well”. Now we know, everything, including the radio, is working. I’m sure the AC blows cold…
r1 horsepower is 240
The engine compartment is all original. This seller liked his Avanti with the correct reproduction front and rear floor mats. If the interior is original then the seats are vinyl. Would like to know the serial number for Avanti follower information
Good looking Studie. Seems like it would be a fun car. Fix the important stuff and enjoy.
Cool Avanti and located in Palm Springs . . . display it at Palm Springs Modernism Week – October: 2024. It is sure to gets lots of attention and questions . . . maybe a higher price.
Buy an Avanti for its unique styling features. An R2 if you can get one–289HP. Avantis can be quirky though. I own a 63 R2. It can be fun to drive, but power steering is basically useless at idle (turning around in a driveway). I did a total mechanical and most electrical restore. After four years still trying to get some bugs out. Like I said, they can be quirky. Great show cars–people love mine and I`ve won awards, but beware of potential problems popping up. I`ve had to deal with many during the restoration. Probably typical of most 60 year old cars.
Man, I have always loved these. I would love to have one of the newer ones with the SBC (because I might be able to afford one). Just never seem to have the timing right. Maybe I should try harder.
Great styling! One of the best of the 60’s!
That said, I’m selling my beautiful 63 R2! 63K original miles. Second owner. Same gorgeous Turquoise color, with beautiful blue/white interior. Can eat off the engine bay!