Image of 1969 Avanti Ii, sourced from auto.howstuffworks.com , Image Link.

A Glimpse into the Past with the 1969 Avanti II

The 1969 Avanti II stands as a testament to innovation and the enduring appeal of American automotive design. Born from the ashes of the original Studebaker Avanti, this luxury coupe was manufactured by Avanti Motor Corporation, a company formed by Studebaker dealers Nate Altman and Leo Newman. The Avanti II continued where its predecessor left off, offering a blend of performance and style that was rare for its time. A notable moment in its history is the seamless transition from a Studebaker model to an independent marque, which is a unique occurrence in automotive history.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1969 Avanti II was a continuation of Raymond Loewy's iconic design, featuring a low-slung profile with a long hood and short deck. Its fiberglass body exuded an air of exclusivity, while the aircraft-inspired cockpit promised a luxurious driving experience. Inside, drivers were greeted with rich leather upholstery and an array of gauges that spoke to the vehicle's performance pedigree. Technologically advanced for its era, the Avanti II included features like air conditioning and power windows, which were not yet standard in all cars. Color options ranged from classic hues to more vibrant tones, with Candy Apple Red and Avanti Gold being popular choices among enthusiasts. The coupe body style remained the most iconic and sought-after configuration.

Historical Significance

The Avanti II's impact on automotive design was subtle yet significant. It carried forward the legacy of its Studebaker roots by offering a personal luxury car that combined performance with handcrafted elegance. This vehicle stood apart from its contemporaries through its unique origin story and commitment to maintaining the spirit of the original Avanti in an era when other manufacturers were moving towards mass production.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1969 Avanti II housed a powerful Chevrolet V8 engine that propelled it to impressive speeds for its time. While exact top speed figures vary, it was known to be capable of reaching over 120 mph, with acceleration from 0-60 mph achieved in under 10 seconds—a respectable feat for a luxury coupe of that period. The car's handling characteristics were praised for their balance; it managed bumps with grace and maintained composure on windy roads. The driving experience was characterized by the throaty rumble of the V8, providing an auditory delight to complement the tactile feedback from its responsive steering.

Ownership Experience

The 1969 Avanti II found its niche among those who appreciated its dual nature as both a daily driver and a show car. Its reliability was commendable for a low-volume vehicle, though maintenance could sometimes be challenging due to limited parts availability. However, many owners found joy in the hands-on experience of keeping their Avanti IIs roadworthy.

Fun Facts

This classic has been associated with celebrity ownerships—Dick Van Dyke being one notable owner—and has made appearances in various media over the years. While some critics pointed out its relatively high price tag or quirks associated with small-scale production, these aspects have only added to its charm over time.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1969 Avanti II holds a special place in collector circles. With only several hundred units produced annually during its production run, it is considered relatively rare. Current values vary widely based on condition and provenance but can range anywhere from $20,000 to over $50,000 for well-maintained examples. The market trend shows appreciation for well-preserved or restored models due to their rarity and historical significance.

Conclusion

The 1969 Avanti II is more than just a classic car; it is a symbol of perseverance in automotive history—a luxury coupe that outlived its parent company and continued to captivate enthusiasts decades later. Its blend of distinctive styling, American power, and hand-built exclusivity ensures that it remains an alluring piece of automotive heritage worthy of admiration and respect.

1969 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