Vehicle Description
There aren't too many nameplates whose history includes as many
twists and turns as the Avanti. Rising like a phoenix from the
ashes of Studebaker's closure in the early '60s, Avanti went
through no fewer than five different ownership arrangements during
its lifetime, which resulted in cars that were stylish and
distinctive, but hard to come by, as only a limited number were
ever produced. The bona fide collectability of this 1988 Avanti
Avanti II is substantial and it pairs with a rock solid running
condition, so this unique ride is not only rarely available, but a
very strong driver as well.
The debut of this '88 marked the 25th anniversary of the Avanti's
introduction and the high impact red paint draped over its exterior
represents the most sought after color of its era. It's a striking
shade to be sure and is in presentable shape just as it is - the
sheer visual distinction of an Avanti is enough to draw attention,
anyway - though a comprehensive detail would elevate its look
considerably. With its array of European styling cues, this is a
car that won't be mistaken for any other on the road - the square
headlights are recessed into a grille-less front end over a color
matched bumper and the tapered tail is somewhat reminiscent of the
Jensen Healeys from a decade earlier. The exterior alignment on the
car remains nice and precise - it features contrasting black trim
that encompasses most of the exterior and you can see how level it
is as it stretches from fender to door to quarter panel before
circling the back. The power white convertible top is in strong
condition, rising into position without issue and sealing nicely to
keep the elements out.
Despite its open-air configuration making it vulnerable to UV
exposure, this Avanti's striking red interior is well-preserved and
features plenty of style. The contoured, high backed buckets
straddle a center console that offers welcome interior space and
features a sharp burlwood accent that merges with the matching
instrument panel, which also features an assortment of black rimmed
gauges to provide an effective contrast. On both sides, the door
panels look very solid, sitting flush against their frames and
showing no discoloration, while the dash pad running the width of
the cabin is free of any cracking - a welcome sight in a
convertible that's more than 30 years old. A Sony AM/FM/Cassette
stereo is on board to provide your audio soundtrack while on the
road. While the Avanti's unique design includes a fairly short deck
lid, the trunk area makes up for it with its depth, so there's
enough luggage space for weekend outings.
The 305 cubic inch V8 sits inside a compartment that's been well
serviced and remains in factory configuration. It wears a 4-barrel
carb on top and teams with an automatic 2004r transmission whose
overdrive gear brings engine-sparing low RPMs at highway speeds.
The current owner has had this one of a kind car for more than 25
years and has provided all the upkeep needed to keep things in good
mechanical condition, so the drivetrain is rock solid and ready to
hit the road. With coil springs at all four corners, the ride is
smooth and refined and the power brakes, featuring discs up front,
bring reliable, fade-resistant stops. A set of 15" spoked wire
wheels carrying BF Goodrich T/A radials adds just the right
finishing touch.
If you're looking for a truly distinctive vintage ride without
having to compromise drivability, you need to see this 1988 Avanti
Avanti II. Call today!
