Image of 1965 Avanti Ii, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

Unveiling the 1965 Avanti II: A Legacy Reinvented

When the curtains fell on the original Avanti, few expected its swift and stylish return. The 1965 Avanti II emerged as a phoenix from the ashes of Studebaker's closure, carrying forward a legacy of innovation and elegance. Crafted by the hands of the newly formed Avanti Motor Corporation, this vehicle was more than a mere continuation; it was a statement of resilience and passion for automotive excellence.

The Avanti II was not just a car; it was a symbol of American ingenuity during an era marked by muscle cars and design revolutions. Its sleek silhouette and fiberglass body were a nod to its predecessor, yet it stood out with refined enhancements. A notable moment in its history was when it became one of the first American cars to offer a full range of customizations directly from the factory, allowing each buyer to own a piece of personalized luxury.

Design and Innovation: The Avanti II Aesthetic

The 1965 Avanti II's exterior styling retained much of the groundbreaking design penned by Raymond Loewy's team for the original Studebaker Avanti. It featured a long, low hood that flowed into a rakish windshield and tapered roofline, culminating in an elegant, truncated rear deck. The hallmark round headlights and grille-less front end remained, giving it an unmistakable presence.

Inside, the Avanti II welcomed drivers with a cockpit that married sportiness with luxury. Rich leather upholstery and plush carpeting were standard, while woodgrain accents adorned the dashboard. Technological features for its time included an advanced air conditioning system and power windows—luxuries that were still optional on many cars of that era.

Color options ranged from classic whites and blacks to more vibrant hues like reds and blues. Among these, the Avanti Red became an iconic choice that accentuated its curves and lines. Body styles were limited to the two-door coupe, which had become synonymous with the Avanti nameplate.

Historical Significance: The Avanti II's Enduring Legacy

The 1965 Avanti II carved its niche in automotive history by continuing Studebaker's legacy of pushing boundaries. It set itself apart with its commitment to custom-built luxury at a time when mass production was king. Its influence can be seen in later personal luxury coupes that embraced individuality as part of their appeal.

Performance and Handling: The Thrill of Driving an Avanti II

Underneath its hood, the 1965 Avanti II housed a powerful Chevrolet-sourced V8 engine that propelled it to impressive speeds for its time. While top speed figures hovered around 120 mph, acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved briskly in under 10 seconds—a testament to its performance pedigree.

The driving experience was characterized by a symphony of engine growls and smooth shifts. Handling was commendable; it navigated bends with poise and absorbed road imperfections gracefully, thanks in part to its sophisticated suspension setup.

Ownership Experience: Living with an Avanti II

The 1965 Avanti II found its place as both a daily driver for the discerning enthusiast and a treasured showpiece for collectors. Maintenance required some know-how but was generally manageable due to the Chevrolet engine's widespread parts availability. Reliability was on par with other luxury vehicles of the time.

Fun Facts: The Charm of the 1965 Avanti II

This classic car boasts several fun tidbits: it continued to use Studebaker serial numbers for authenticity, and notable personalities such as Dick Van Dyke were proud owners. While not known for breaking speed records, it held its own as a symbol of prestige and performance.

Collector's Information: The Value of Rarity

The exact production numbers for the 1965 Avanti II are elusive but estimated to be in the low hundreds, adding to its rarity. Today's market values vary widely based on condition, originality, and provenance; however, well-preserved examples can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to over $50,000 at auction or private sale.

Conclusion: Celebrating an Iconic Classic

The 1965 Avanti II stands as an enduring testament to visionary design and engineering prowess—a classic car that continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide. Its blend of performance, luxury, and rarity ensures that it remains not just a vehicle but a cherished piece of automotive artistry.

1965 Avanti II Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 67Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 2-3/4" wide X 5-3/8" long, with 1-3/4" long inner slot. Pair