1963 Avanti Two-Door Coupe

This 1963 model year Avanti is believed to be a base R1 model fitted with a 240 hp, 289 ci Studebaker-designed and built V8. A supercharged R2 variant made 290 hp, and a factory-built one-off fitted with two R2-spec Paxton blowers reached 196 mph on the salt flats of Bonneville.

Spec includes a 3-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes, the latter including discs in front–a very advanced feature for the day, particularly for American cars. Other factory features include a/c and power windows and reflect the Avanti’s status as Studebaker’s halo car.

Very late original Avantis were fitted with square headlight surrounds, much to the detriment of Loewy’s complex-but-subtle GT styling. Note the stylized S badges found in several places–these stood for Studebaker, of course, but were found exclusively on the Avanti.

The asymmetric hood is wonderful, as is the factory dual exhaust setup, the shape and location of the fuel filler door, and countless other details. Bodywork is made up of 129 individual pieces of fiberglass, and conceals an internal roll bar.

Few other cars are as dependent on the correct tire profile to look their best, and this example almost appears to float over tall, narrow white walls mounted to factory 15” wheels and covers. Post-Studebaker continuation Avantis sacrificed grace for wider, lower profile rubber.

The Avanti used a Lark Daytona convertible chassis made by Studebaker near their South Bend, Indiana headquarters, but bodies were contracted out to MFB of Ohio, the same company responsible for supplying shells for the very earliest, hand-built Corvettes of 1953.

Fiberglass was still primarily an aerospace material in the early 1960s, and much of the cabin’s coolest features were clearly inspired by aircraft–take the amazing tail stabilizer-style center console levers and roof-mounted switchgear, for example.

Continuing this ground-bound plane theme, the scent of an Avanti interior will be immediately familiar to anyone who’s spent time in a Cessna, likely because of the solvents and glues used in the construction of composite bodywork–it’s a feature!

Colors and materials all appear to be factory correct, and excluding the original radio, standard equipment seems to be largely accounted for as well.

The engine is a traditional American-style V8 with 2 valves per cylinder actuated by pushrods and rockers, but despite displacing 289 ci, it’s not a Ford. These all-Studebaker engines are robust and proven, and were among the most powerful American V8’s of the era–only Chrysler’s hemi could deliver more hp per cubic inch.

This car is sold with limited documentation.

We admire post-Studebaker continuation cars, and are grateful for their existence–more Avantis can only be a positive thing–but legitimate, early round-light cars are by far the most special and desirable. This one looks to have all the right parts, and lots of potential.

Estimated $8,000 - $14,000.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.

We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.

Buyers should expect the title within 30 business days following the sale; however, please note that for reasons beyond Bonhams/Market control, including any delays in lien releases by lien holder and/or delays by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) in certain states, there are instances where the Buyer may not receive the title within 30 business days and, in those circumstances, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

If a Lot is rendered “Title in Transit”, it is unlikely that the Buyers will receive the title in the mail within 30 business days following the auction/sale; however, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

The Buyer acknowledges that delays in transferring titles including, due to delays at government Motor Vehicle departments, happen from time-to-time and, the Buyer will hold both Bonhams/Market and the Consignor harmless from any allegations of damages arising out of government delays.

Please note it is the responsibility of the Buyer to transfer ownership in compliance with their jurisdictional rules and regulations.