The Avanti didn't save Studebaker, but it certainly was an extraordinary effort.  The car was so appealing that it couldn't die with end of Studebaker car production.  Two former dealers bought the Avanti factory and produced the Avanti II  with a Chevrolet engine and other GM parts, many from the Corvette. 

The Avanti II remained in production until 1991 (and later if you consider a highly revised variant), but the car lost much of its raw performance after 1970, when emissions regulations and a desire for luxury became increasingly important.

This 1970 Avanti is a great example from that last desirable year.  It is literally a "daily driver" and could be driven across country.  However, it is approaching the need for restoration or significant attention by a new owner.  The current owner has driven it since 1975, and will be sad to see it go.

Pros:

• Runs and drives well
• Strong GM 350/350 motor with good compression
• Body in overall good shape
• Rebuilt transmission with Lee Myles lifetime guarantee
• Down-to-frame restoration in 1993 included new body mounts
• Northeast Avanti disc brake conversion
• Electronic ignition/distributor
• Shorter steering arms
• Stiffer leaf springs (she handles!)
• A/C converted to R134a
• Stainless Steel exhaust system
• Platinum Plugs (2005)
• Longer seat tracks
• 6-blade fan
• Chevy-based components can be worked on by any mechanic

Cons:

• Valve guides leak resulting in puff of smoke on start-up.  Clears up after about 30 seconds.
• Body would need re-paint to be really nice.  However, a good shop could repair and match a couple of areas (see pics) and this could continue to be a head-turning, good-looking car without a full re-paint.
• Interior is well-used and needs upgrading - particularly the carpet.
• "Hog Troughs" (once replaced) are rusted through.  These are readily available and can be installed by a competent shop.
• Surface rust underneath - nothing serious.
• Numerous minor issues to address, typical of an older car.  While these aren't major, we don't want to minimize the effort required to bring this car to a high standard.

That about sums up this classic, very dramatic-looking Avanti.  We suspect the new owner will enjoy this car for many years, as the current owner has.  Please email if you have questions, or call Lee at 410-849-3466.