Image of 1964 Studebaker Avanti, sourced from www.hemmings.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1964 Studebaker Avanti is a testament to the audacity of innovation and design that emerged from an era of automotive upheaval. Birthed by the Studebaker Corporation, a company with deep roots in American industry, the Avanti was a bold attempt to revitalize the brand and capture the imagination of a public hungry for modernity. Its unveiling was not just a release of a new model, but a statement of forward-thinking in an age where the space race was influencing design and technology. A notable moment in its history includes its record-breaking 29 speed endurance records set at the Bonneville Salt Flats, which still resonates with car enthusiasts today.

Design and Innovation

The Avanti's exterior styling was nothing short of revolutionary. With its long, low hood, curvaceous lines, and absence of a conventional grille, it presented an aerodynamic silhouette that was ahead of its time. Inside, passengers were treated to an interior that prioritized comfort and luxury, with materials that ranged from rich vinyl to optional leather upholstery. Technologically, it boasted advancements such as front disc brakes and a Paxton supercharger—a rarity for cars in its class during that period. The color palette included choices like Avanti Red and Jet Black, with Avanti Gold being among the popular picks. While only available as a coupe, buyers could opt for various trim levels and powertrain options, with the supercharged R2 model being particularly iconic.

Historical Significance

The 1964 Studebaker Avanti stood out for its radical departure from traditional automotive design norms. Its influence can be seen in later models across various brands that embraced aerodynamics and power as central themes. The Avanti's commitment to performance and luxury set a new benchmark for American GT-style cars and remains a touchstone for design innovation.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior lay impressive performance credentials. The Avanti's top speed was clocked at over 150 mph with the supercharged engine, while acceleration from 0-60 mph could be achieved in approximately 7.5 seconds—a remarkable feat at the time. On the road, it handled with poise and confidence, absorbing bumps gracefully while remaining composed on twisty sections. Drivers often remark on the visceral experience—the growl of the engine under acceleration and the solid feel of the car connecting them directly to the road.

Ownership Experience

The Avanti found its niche among those who appreciated its dual nature as both a daily driver and a show car capable of turning heads at any gathering. While reliability was generally good for well-maintained examples, some components can be challenging to source due to limited production numbers. However, a dedicated community and specialist suppliers help mitigate these issues.

Fun Facts

A curious piece of trivia is that despite its limited production run, several celebrities were drawn to the Avanti's allure—including famed talk show host Dick Clark. While not known for breaking sales records, its speed records at Bonneville helped cement its legacy in performance history. Criticisms often centered on Studebaker's financial struggles impacting production quality consistency.

Collector's Information

Today, the value range for a 1964 Studebaker Avanti can vary widely depending on condition, originality, and whether it has the supercharged engine option. Estimates suggest fewer than 5,000 units were produced before Studebaker ceased operations in 1966. In terms of appreciation, well-preserved or restored Avantis have seen an upward trend in value—often fetching between $20,000 to over $50,000 at auction or private sale.

Conclusion

The 1964 Studebaker Avanti is more than just an automobile; it's a symbol of ambition and an emblem of an era where boundaries were pushed both on Earth and beyond. Its legacy endures not only through those who cherish these vehicles but also through its indelible mark on automotive design history—a true classic that continues to captivate hearts and minds across generations.

1964 Studebaker Avanti Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each-AP 22Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each

1964 Studebaker Avanti Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 45Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 2-3/4" wide X 4-1/8" long, with 1-5/8" long inner slot. Pair

1964 Studebaker Avanti 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

1964 Studebaker Avanti Power Steering Bushing. 1-9/16" O.D., 7/16" I.D. Pair-BN 107Power Steering Bushing. 1-9/16" O.D., 7/16" I.D. Pair

1964 Studebaker Avanti Gas Filler Grommet. Perfect reproduction. Top 2-1/16" I.D-GF 45Gas Filler Grommet. Perfect reproduction. Top 2-1/16" I.D., 3-7/16" O.D. Each

1964 Studebaker Avanti Headlight Ring Seal. 8-5/8" O.D., 7-7/8" I.D. Pair-HR 16Headlight Ring Seal. 8-5/8" O.D., 7-7/8" I.D. Pair

1964 Studebaker Avanti Mirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-B, check dimensions-MP 965-AMirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-B, check dimensions. 1" wide X 7" long. Each

1964 Studebaker Avanti Mirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-A, check dimensions-MP 965-BMirror Pad. Similar to MP 965-A, check dimensions. 1-1/8" wide X 6-3/4" long. Each

1964 Studebaker Avanti Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each-MP 979Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each

1964 Studebaker Avanti Antenna Pad. 1-1/2" O.D., 5/8" I.D. Each-MP 979-AAntenna Pad. 1-1/2" O.D., 5/8" I.D. Each

1964 Studebaker Avanti Rubber Seal Behind Fender on Headlights-MP 979-CRubber Seal Behind Fender on Headlights. 8-7/8" wide X 10" long. Pair

1964 Studebaker Avanti Headlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D-SM 13-AHeadlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D. Each