For Sale: 1988 Avanti Avanti in Mesa, Arizona

Iconic styling meets easy components - that's why you want a rare 1988 Avanti convertible. And this a well-equipped and well-respected cruiser that has nice details like a fuel-injected powerhouse and an overdrive transmission. So it's amazing you can get such a distinct drop-top offered at an affordable price.



The Avanti was the boldest Studebaker to hit the streets, but it was also one of their costliest cars. The initial production only lived a few years, but there were a select few who understood the significance of the lightweight fiberglass car penned by the legendary Raymond Loewy. They kept it going with small-batch handcrafted cars. It makes this a cruiser that is part of a rich history of a dream that was too beautiful to die. As you look through this example, you will find it represents its era nicely. 1988 was actually the 25th anniversary of the Avanti as its own brand, and in that quarter century, there was an evolution. This included square headlights, well-integrated bumpers, and the addition of convertibles like this. The white paint is the factory-correct color and a later respray means a nice mix of a good shine and an overall driver-quality appearance. And this one just loves to be a cruiser. After all, it gets plenty of attention with details like the hallmark flat front end and bright wire wheels. And we really like the red waistline trim that coordinates so nicely with the red folding roof.



Beneath the red top is a full red interior. It's highly original with just a few upholstery replacements being the most obvious addition. There are provisions for features like air conditioning, a stereo, an alarm, and power locks, and they would just need servicing if you want to return the function. But your favorite features are ready to be enjoyed, like the power windows and power convertible top. So you can open this one up to the world without ever leaving the driver's seat. And more of the proper cruiser feeling comes from the right amenities. You have a power-adjusting bucket seat, an armrest center console, a sports steering wheel on a tilt column, and a full set of readouts, including a large speedo and tach.



Under the hood is a Chevy 305 cubic-inch V8. This is the key to what makes an Avanti like this so appealing. It's a unique car but the components to maintain or upgrade it are economical and readily available. It's a fuel-injected and torque-filled powerhouse that has an easy-driving nature that is right for this luxury drop-top. Plus, with power steering, power brakes, front discs, and a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, this one really does have all the right ingredients to be a great anytime classic.



The sale comes complete with the owner's manual. You'll likely see the value price as a way to budget for restoring the A/C, adding new tires, and/or any other cruiser details you want. And the investment will feel worthwhile because you're likely going to be the only Avanti drop-top in any social circle. So this is exotic-level distinction at a far more obtainable price. Call today!!!