Avanti II Models: 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969

Why is the 1965-1969 Avanti II so special? Few automobiles are revived after the demise of their original manufacturer.

After Studebaker relocated from its historic base in South Bend, Indiana, to Ontario in early 1964 for a last attempt at survival, the forward-thinking Avanti appeared destined for extinction after just two years of production.

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Following the failure of the Canadian venture in 1966, the Avanti logically should have faded into obscurity. Even the most exceptional cars cannot endure without a manufacturer to produce them.

Leo Newman and Nathan (Nate) Altman, seasoned partners in a South Bend Studebaker-Packard dealership, conceived a brilliant idea that ultimately rescued the strikingly unique coupe from oblivion.

The duo not only acquired the rights to the Avanti name and its production but also secured a section of a disused Studebaker factory, establishing the new Avanti Motor Corporation.

Production commenced in late 1965 at the rejuvenated Lafayette Avenue facility, aiming to produce 300 Avanti IIs annually. Although this target was never met, the Avanti thrived through the 1960s, 1970s, and even into the 1980s.

This longevity is particularly remarkable given that the original Avanti was not a commercial success. While it garnered attention and bolstered Studebaker's reputation, as other automakers have discovered, racing victories and record-breaking 170-mph runs do not always translate into strong sales.

If the original Avanti had been constructed from steel rather than fiberglass, its revival might never have been feasible. By utilizing body panels from the Molded Fiber Glass Body Company and a compact assembly line, the reborn Avanti models could be produced at a manageable cost.

The assembly line was staffed by numerous former Studebaker workers, who were eager to earn modest wages while crafting bespoke sport-luxury touring vehicles.

Avanti not only offered an extensive list of options that would rival any competitor, but customers could also negotiate for nearly any feature they desired.

Colors? The choices were virtually limitless. Fabrics? Almost any material that could be fashioned into seats was available, with stitching expertly done by former Studebaker artisans.

Naturally, Avanti had to replace the original R-series Studebaker engines, opting for the more accessible Chevrolet powertrains, particularly the Corvette's 327-cid V-8.

The power-shift automatic transmission enabled manual control through first and second gears, though many buyers preferred the fully synchronized Borg-Warner four-speed, often paired with a Hurst shifter.

To discover how the 1965-1969 Avanti II stacks up against the original Avanti, proceed to the next page.

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Continued

Only a true enthusiast could distinguish a 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, or 1969 Avanti II from the original without spotting the "II" on its badge. The profile and details remained largely unchanged, except for a more balanced stance on the ground.

The earlier "rake" (with the front end lower than the rear) was eliminated. Otherwise, the revived coupe retained the same grille-less front, sharp-edged fenders, slim bumpers, and "Coke-bottle" silhouette, with only a slight reduction in the front wheel openings.

Reduced weight improved the car's weight distribution. Front disc brakes ensured reliable stopping power without fade. Test drivers praised its safety, quietness, and a ride that was both firm and comfortable.

While the original Avanti emphasized performance, the new version leaned toward being a four-seat "personal luxury" vehicle, partly due to its higher price. The original sold for $4,445, but the Avanti II started at $7,200 -- or as low as $6,550 if buyers opted to forgo some standard features.

With all optional features included, the price could easily reach close to $10,000.

Optional features included air conditioning, power windows, tinted glass, Eppe driving lights, a limited-slip differential, Magnum 500 chrome wheels, and much more.

Inside, $200 upgraded the upholstery to textured "Raphael vinyl," while $500 covered the cost of full leather. As later promotional materials boasted, there were "over 400 ways to indulge yourself inside an Avanti."

This doesn’t mean the Avanti lacked performance. It could reach a top speed of approximately 125 mph, and an automatic-equipped "II" could go from 0 to 60 mph in under nine seconds.

Eugene Hardig, the final Chief Engineer at Studebaker, ensured the engine remained compliant as it expanded to 350-cid in 1969 and later to 400 cid.

After Nate Altman's passing in 1976, a series of owners took over the Avanti brand. Despite occasional uncertainty about the company's future, the car has stayed faithful to the design created over 40 years ago, proving its enduring appeal.

To explore the specifications of the 1965-1969 Avanti II, proceed to the next page.

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1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969 Avanti II Specifications

The 1965-1969 Avanti IIs were bespoke touring vehicles blending luxury features with sporty performance. Only true enthusiasts can distinguish these models from the original Studebaker Avanti.

Specifications

Engines: all, ohv V-8; 1965-1969, 327 cid (4.00 × 3.25), 300 bhp; 1969, 350 cid (4.00 × 3.48), 300 bhp

Transmissions: Borg-Warner 4-speed manual or “power-shift” 3-speed automatic

Suspension front: upper and lower A-arms, coil springs, stabilizer bar

Suspension rear: live axle, leaf springs

Brakes: front discs, rear drums

Wheelbase (in.): 109.0

Weight (lbs): 3,181-3,217

Top speed (mph): 121-125

0-60 mph (sec): 7.5-8.8

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