By 1953, Studebaker had not released a new car design, but almost 10 years later they would release this fiberglass-bodied sports coupe, which would leave a positive impression for years to come. The Avanti was Studebaker’s last gasp at innovation. It was the brainchild of Studebaker President Sherwood Egbert and was designed in just six weeks by a Raymond Loewy team in Palm Springs, California. Smooth lines, under-the-bumper radiator air intake, and wedge-shape design were key hallmarks in the design of this car. The Avanti was advertised as a new class of American automobile with sophisticated design and great elegance.

John Moir purchased this 1963 Studebaker Avanti new for his wife, Heather, in December 1962. Mrs. Moir drove the Avanti for many years, leaving it at the family home in Key Biscayne each summer for service by a Studebaker expert while the Moirs resided in New Hampshire for July and August.

Each of the Moirs’ sons learned to drive in the Avanti, so there was some light damage to the fenders. More recently, its body was restored and refinished in the original color of Avanti White and the interior was reupholstered. The car was originally built with a manual transmission, but due to Mrs. Moir’s bad hip, it was swapped out for the present automatic transmission, which is correct for the model. Aside from these modifications, the Avanti is still original and has its factory engine. It would be an ideal basis for a show-quality restoration after having been enjoyed by single-family ownership since it was first delivered new.