1963 Studebaker Avanti

289

Automatic

63R2248

Clear

gasoline

This Avanti was pulled from a dark garage after 18 years and given 100 hours of care to make it roadworthy. The Stude belonged to a well known bay area record producer. He painted himself. It went from a champagne color to root beer brown with a hint of orange. I call the Avanti "Tony the Tiger." The paint job is very durable and covers well. There are some thin spots and scratches. He used PPG high quality paint and it is very shiny. The color switch may discourage the purists although it suits the car well and highlights the bright orange interior. The car has had the tank cleaned, the front brake calipers replaced and a full change of fluids, belts, tune up parts and much more. My mechanic of 25 years took a special interest in resuscitating the vehicle and did it justice. The car cruises on up to 70 mph and is a hoot to ride around in. I took my wife, baby and mother in law to ice cream and up into the hills. The accessories and gauges are in good working order aside from the tach and AC. The radio crackles but does not tune in. It was very easy to get comfortable behind the wheel. The response to the car is expected as there is nothing like it on the road today. You will find that the car was never beaten on or modified past the paint and hubcaps. I was surprised there were no creaks, groans or clunks in the suspension. The exhaust rumbles a great roar at acceleration. The pipes will need a slight repair at the collector as you fine tune it more. The chrome heat protectors for the engine are here in a box ready for reinstallation. Also the left headlight ring is cracked at the screw point. The interior of the Avanti has stood the test of time. I would not recommend replacing anything on the interior at this time. The seats have small imperfections if you get down and look for them. The front carpet has disintegrated under the mats and that could be a job for an expert or yourself. It doesn't detract from the interior much. There is a small chrome strip for the passenger sill that is missing. The molding is just laying on the sill right now. The glove box opens to reveal a tray and mirror that folds out like in an airplane and is a fabulous detail. This is a great car to get in and begin to enjoy immediately.Welcome to carsanddogs1970 where we have been endlessly digging out hidden cars and bringing them back. We like this Avanti very much. It is an unmolested example and if you are ok with it, we are ok with you! Please ask any questions beforehand. We will answer them right away. harris