1981 Avanti Avanti II Restomod

Description

Iconic styling meets reliable components - that's the advantage of this 1981 Avanti II. So not only does it look distinct, but you also have a luxury interior, an overdrive transmission, and a fuel-injected LT1 V8 borrowed from a Corvette. That makes for a terrific package for those who love to drive something quite unique.

The Avanti was the boldest Studebaker to hit the streets, but it was also one of their costliest cars. So it was discontinued only after a couple of years. But there were a select few who understood the significance of the car penned by the legendary Raymond Loewy, and they kept it going with small-batch, handcrafted examples like this 1981 Avanti II. This history gives the coupe an instant appeal, and it's also why someone has taken the time to keep it an attractive driver. This is believed to be a two-owner car. The second owner has given it long-term care for over two decades, and in that time he has also made some nice investments. For example, this was born a turquoise coupe, but that shade wasn't quite bold enough. So he kept the spirit of the tone but invested in a professional respray that has a nice metallic radiance. It continues to look good today with the right mix of driver-ready appearance and a high gloss style. So when you get this into the sunlight, it really highlights the artistic blend of crisp lines and gentle curves on this well-preserved fiberglass body. The original form-fitting bumpers follow this same design philosophy to create a look that's distinctly American and perpetually futuristic.

The gray tones of the clean interior look stylish against the turquoise exterior. You'll appreciate the classic style in the details like the pleated dash, toggle switches, AM/FM/cassette stereo, and full SW readouts set in the wood trim panel. And this one is also made to be a luxurious cruiser with power windows, power locks with keyless entry, a remote trunk opener, and provisions for R134a air conditioning (it will need servicing to blow cold again.) And it's easy to get comfortable for even the long haul with a tilt steering column and upgraded body-hugging front bucket seats.

The Avanti II had Chevrolet small block V8s when they started production, but what's under the hood today is even more desirable. This keeps the GM power but was upgraded around 2013 to the Corvette's 5.7-liter LT1 fuel-injected V8. It's a clean installation that was done well, including an aluminum radiator with a thermostatically controlled electric fan. It fires up readily and gives you a great V8 tune out of the glasspack-style dual exhaust. Not only is this more powerful, but it's also better for all-around use. The upgrade to the four-speed automatic transmission means there's overdrive for easy trips near or far. And the same anytime driving attitude also goes for the power steering, power brakes, front discs, and sway bars front & rear.

The sale comes complete with build receipts, service manuals, and maintenance records. This is the two-owner Avanti II with the right mix of care and investments to be an awesome driver's classic. Call today!!!