Description
The design of the Studebaker Avanti was developed from Sherwood Egbert's original concept, by an assembled team led by Raymond Loewy and including Tom Kellogg, John Ebstein, and Bob Andrews, over an intensive 40-day design program. It had a ground breaking fiberglass body mounted on a modified Studebaker Lark Daytona 109-inch convertible chassis with a modified 289 V8 Hawk engine. The Avanti had a highly aerodynamic profile which allowed it to reach nearly 200 mph in Supercharged form. Instead of a conventional grille, cooling air was directed underneath the front of the car via a wide "under bumper" grille. Braking was via large 11. 5-inch (292mm) Dunlop brakes, which were produced under licence by Bendix . The Studebaker Avanti was the first American car to feature these. The model also had advanced safety features including a built-in roll bar and a padded interior. Only 3834 Studebaker Avanti's were built in during the1963 model year. The Raymond Loewy influences are clearly demonstrated by the aircraft style heater controls and overhead switches for lights etc (Loewy designed the interior of Air Force One for President Kennedy)The Studebaker Avanti offered here was built in January 1963 and was originally supplied to a customer in Glendale, California. It was was equipped with all available factory options, which included A/ C, Disc brakes, Power steering, Twin Traction (LSD), Silent mufflers, Electric windows, Tinted side glass, Radio and Pop-Up vanity mirror in the glove box. Since arriving in the UK earlier this year the Avanti has benefited from new and upgraded electric window motors and regulators from Nu Relics. The car drives and stops amazingly well for a near 61 year-old classic. The bodywork is in superb condition with a just a few minor chips and imperfections. The interior is in incredible order, despite 60+ years of wear and remains a comfortable place to be. The underside and chassis are also in great condition, due in no small part to a life spent in Southern California. The owner has retro-fitted a modern radio in the glove box, which is equipped with telephone connectivity and aux input. Offered complete with original manuals, in original wallet, factory build card, parts manual and workshop manuals. The car is also equipped with the correct Strato-Vue mirrors, remote trunk release mechanism and private AV registration number. Offered on behalf of a client. Viewing is strictly by appointment only.
