The Avanti was Studebaker’s last gasp at innovation. Brainchild of President Sherwood Egbert, it was designed in Palm Springs, California, by a Raymond Loewy team in just six weeks. Fiberglass was chosen for the body in a matter of expediency, and a Lark convertible chassis was pressed into service. The basic “R-1” version used a “Jet Thrust” version of Studebaker’s 289-cid V-8, enhanced with a four-barrel carburetor, high-lift cam and dual exhaust. A supercharged R-3 was available and, briefly, a bored-out and supercharged R-3.

This example has a great story in being with the same owner for the past 40-plus years. It is finished in eponymous Avanti White that is relayed as being “very good,” while the fawn red interior is stated as “good,” plus it has a tan dash, rear deck and headliner. The 289-cid V-8 powers this Avanti along with a Borg Warner automatic transmission with three speeds and overdrive; the engine is stated to be its original unit. Air conditioning, power steering, power brakes, AM radio, dual fender-mounted mirrors, factory wheel covers and whitewall tires are also seen on the car.

The Avanti is reported as in excellent mechanical condition and is a “good driver,” that has had over $7,000 invested in mechanical repairs over the past three years. All of the receipts are said to be included, as is the spare and jack. The Avanti has been shown at Hershey and in its time has won numerous, unspecified awards.