Description

1964 Studebaker Avanti – Supercharged 289 V8, 3-Speed Automatic – Rare and Revolutionary Design

Key Features:

• Model Year: 1964
• Make: Studebaker
• Model: Avanti
• Engine: 289ci V8 with R2 Supercharger
• Transmission: 3-speed automatic
• Horsepower: 290 hp
• Exterior Color: P6432 Turquoise respray
• Headlights: Early round headlights with round bezels
• Wheels: 15 x 7 Chrome Magnum-style wheels (unknown if original)
• Interior: Mid-Century Modern design with slim-section vinyl bucket seats
• Dashboard: Wood-grained control panel with wraparound design
• Safety Features: Built-in roll bar, power brakes, anti-sway bars
• Suspension: Independent front, leaf-sprung rear, Dana 44 rear end
• Brakes: Power disc front brakes, power drum rear brakes
• Exhaust: Dual exhaust system with a low growl
• Mileage: 93,049 miles
• Unique Features: Rare early-production round headlights, supercharged engine, distinctive Mid-Century Modern interior design
• Condition: Well-maintained with maintenance records and repair notes available
• Production: One of only 809 units produced in 1964
• History: Built in August 1963, titled as a 1964 model
• Documentation: Available maintenance records, repair notes from consignor
• Rarity: A rare and highly collectible American classic with significant historical and design importance.

Overview
Presented here is a highly sought-after 1964 Studebaker Avanti, a true icon of Mid-Century Modern automotive design. Crafted under the direction of Raymond Loewy, the Avanti was intended to lead a new generation of Studebaker cars, combining bold styling with advanced engineering. This example is particularly rare, featuring the R2 supercharged 289ci V8 engine and a 3-speed automatic transmission, offering an exhilarating driving experience and remarkable performance. With only 809 units produced in 1964, and a distinctive early build, this is a unique opportunity to acquire one of the most innovative American cars of the era.

Exterior Features
The 1964 Avanti is renowned for its revolutionary styling, including a coke-bottle waist, thin-section roof, and expansive rear window, complemented by a built-in roll bar for added safety. The sleek, razor-edged front fenders sweep into the rear, culminating in a dynamic, elevated tail. The car features a P6432 Turquoise respray, which has been applied over body filler and rough sanding, preserving the car’s original form while adding a touch of contemporary flair. Notably, this example retains round headlights and round bezels, a feature found only in early production models—making it a rare gem. The chrome Magnum-style wheels (15 x 7) add a polished touch to the exterior, though it is uncertain if they are original to the vehicle. Studebaker was known for making mid-production changes, adding to the uniqueness of this particular car.

Interior Features
Inside, the Avanti embraces Mid-Century Modern aesthetics with a functional yet stylish design. The cabin features four slim-section vinyl bucket seats, complemented by a wraparound wood-grained control panel and a built-in roll bar—a testament to Studebaker’s commitment to safety and innovation. The center console boasts a small, chrome gearshift with a ball-topped stem, and similar ball-style controls are used for the air vents, heater, and fan speed levers beneath the dash. The dark turquoise carpeting and light turquoise vinyl upholstery create a harmonious contrast, elevating the interior’s visual appeal. The car is equipped with power brakes, adding to its drivability and ease of operation.

Drivetrain and Performance
At the heart of this Avanti is the 289ci V8 engine featuring the R2 Model Supercharger, which feeds air and fuel into a 4-barrel carburetor, producing an impressive 290 horsepower. This configuration delivers exceptional acceleration and smooth low-rpm cruising. The car is fitted with a Borg Warner 3-speed automatic transmission, which shifts seamlessly and enhances the overall driving experience. The car’s independent front suspension and leaf-sprung rear suspension, paired with the Dana 44 rear, provide a balanced and responsive ride. The addition of power disc brakes in the front and power drum brakes at the rear ensures reliable stopping power. The dual exhaust system produces a tasteful low growl, signaling the power beneath the hood.

Undercarriage and Condition
The Avanti sits on the Lark convertible frame, which has been shortened and modified to accommodate the car’s unique design. This frame is reinforced with anti-sway bars and rear radius rods for improved handling stability. The undercarriage shows signs of patina and surface rust, which is typical of a car of this age. Despite these imperfections, the frame remains structurally sound, and the car has been regularly maintained. Maintenance records and repair notes are available from the current consignor, confirming the vehicle’s mechanical integrity.

Conclusion
The 1964 Studebaker Avanti is an exceptional example of American automotive design, combining groundbreaking styling with powerful performance. Featuring a supercharged 289ci V8 engine, 3-speed automatic transmission, and rare early production features, this Avanti is a rare collector’s item. While it shows some signs of wear and tear, the car’s distinctive design, performance upgrades, and well-documented history make it an incredibly valuable addition to any classic car collection. Whether you’re a fan of Mid-Century Modern design or a collector of rare American performance cars, this Studebaker Avanti offers an unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of automotive history.

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