If you were asked to name the final vehicle to feature a Studebaker-inspired design, you might guess the Lark, the Hawk, or another classic from the 1960s. However, the true answer is the Avanti, a car that defied its parent company's demise and stayed in production for decades. A unique 1989 Avanti Sport Convertible, featuring just 22,000 miles on the odometer, is currently being auctioned on Bring a Trailer with no reserve.
A Legacy That Outlived Its Creator
Studebaker introduced the fiberglass-bodied Avanti as a bold, final effort to remain relevant in the automotive market. Designed by Raymond Loewy’s team, the coupe boasted a futuristic look with a sculpted profile and an absence of a traditional grille. Despite its innovation, Studebaker ceased vehicle manufacturing in December 1963.
Remarkably, the story didn't end there. Local Studebaker dealers acquired the rights, tooling, and parts, relaunching the vehicle as the "Avanti II" in 1965, powered by Chevrolet V8 engines. Throughout the following years, the brand passed through several hands, undergoing various modifications—including the addition of convertible variants and updated chassis designs—before moving to Ohio in 1987 under the ownership of John Cafaro. Production under his tenure resulted in only 405 units before the plant shut down in 1991.
The Details of This Rare Find
Production numbers for the 1989 model year were extremely low, with reports indicating that only 101 Avanti convertibles were produced. This specific example was originally delivered to a dealership in Florida with an original sticker price exceeding $52,000. It has since moved through several states, with the current owner adding 1,500 miles to the vehicle since 2021.
Under the hood, the car features:
- A fuel-injected 5.0-liter Chevrolet V8 engine.
- A factory rating of 170 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque.
- A four-speed automatic transmission coupled with a limited-slip differential.
The interior is appointed in beige leather, complemented by a Silver Beige exterior finish and a tan soft top. The seller has noted minor imperfections, such as a malfunctioning passenger door handle and some wear on the seats and gauge dials. The sale includes original documentation, service history, and a clean title.
Why the Avanti Remains Iconic
The Avanti continues to attract attention because its survival remains a fascinating piece of automotive trivia. It stands as a testament to a design that appeared ahead of its time in 1963, persisting well into an era dominated by more conservative styling. It joins a select group of vehicles that famously outlived their original manufacturers, much like the Mitsubishi Starion or the Jensen Interceptor.