The Avanti was one of Studebaker’s last attempts at staying afloat in the 1960s. But unfortunately, it was too little too late to make much difference and U.S. production ceased at the end of 1963. The brand would continue for another couple of years in Canada, but the Avanti did not go along for the ride. The car was too cool to die and resurrected by a couple of Studebaker dealers. Located in Lombard, Illinois, this second-generation Avanti II is available here on eBay. There is no reserve, but just one bid of $3,000 has been cast.
Two long-time Studebaker dealers bought the rights to the Avanti name, along with some tooling and plant space, and cranked out about 2,400 of the revived Avanti II through 1983. These cars would be powered by Chevrolet drivetrains which were readily available. The company would turn over ownership four more times before the last of the cars were bolted together in 2006. Post-Studebaker, some 4,100 overall Avanti IIs would be assembled compared to the 4,600 that Studebaker produced over about 18 months.
Except for engines and transmission, the earlier Avanti IIs would be a lot like the originals. But as time went on and ownership continue to change, the physical appearance of the cars would “evolve” though they didn’t look quite like what Studebaker had perceived (personal opinion). The seller is a fan of these cars and has a 1973 Avanti II that received the front-end fiberglass off this car when it got wrecked about eight years ago. We’re told this one only has 38,000 miles, so we must assume it wasn’t a pristine car or why pilfer the front end for another project?
Besides the front clip, the seller also transferred the Recaro seats that were in this ’83. What remains of the car resides inside a tent, but we’re told its engine, transmission, sunroof, doors, and glass are still on or in the car or are nearby. According to The Avanti, only 289 Avanti IIs were built in 1983, the last year before the original saviors of the automobile sold their company. Do you think this one is worth saving?
No. Parts only.
Avant-garde
Well played sir! Very witty, very witty indeed!
Ah, a deteriorated Harbor Freight “portable garage” (aka “tent”), I know them well! They do keep the rain off while intact but that’s about it. In this case looks like it’s being used to store a pile of parts rather than an actual Avanti II.
I’m no fan of these avantis, but its a shame to see one in this condition. Good luck and happy motoring.
Cheers
GPC
Omar the tentmaker called. he wants his Avanti back. (“I vant my Avanti!”)
Run!