Chevrolet V8 engine with TH350 GM automatic transmission
The Appeal
When Studebaker closed in 1967, America lost one of the most innovative car manufacturers in history. The Studebaker Corporation had premiered beautifully designed, comfortable and often remarkably ahead-of-their-time motors over the course of its history, and none was more iconic than the Avanti.
Designed by the legendary Raymond Loewy, the Avanti was one of the most extraordinary-looking, fearless automobiles ever built - but alas, being extraordinary was expensive, and despite the car's popular and intensive marketing, it simply wasn't able to be produced in a high-enough quantity to break even.
However, extraordinary often results in being beloved - and there were many who simply didn't want to let the futuristic sports car die. Thus enters the Avanti II - an increasingly modified iteration of the Avanti that was produced on-and-off in one-form-or-another from 1967 to 2006. The finest of these was undeniably the Nate and Arnold Altman and Leo Newman cars - they were, after all, Studebaker Dealers, and Leo Newman was a Studebaker truck parts division. That's a lot of authenticity!
This 1980 example from the Avanti II is one of the closest to the original car's spec, still carrying a Chevvy V8 and a General Motors automatic transmission. The car's solid structure, is free of corrosion, while its well-preserved leather interior make it a worthy addition to any classic car collection. Additionally, the vehicle comes with US documents, all duties paid, and customs clearance. All that's left is to register it!
History and Paperwork
Built in 1980
Recently imported to Spain
US documents with all duties paid and customs clearance
Still awaiting Spanish registration
Currently indicates 33,158 miles on a five-figure odometer
Yet to receive ITV
The Condition
Original paint in great shape, with only light age-commensurate wear
Bodywork is clean and well-presented
Bumpers carry a light patina
Glasswork and lenses look in good order
Underside appears solid
Leather interior carries a charming patina
No rips or tears to the leather
Dashboard has no cracks
All instruments are clean and well-presented
Carpets carry some sign of wear
One reversing light is missing
The Mechanics
5.7L Chevrolet V8 powerplant
TH350 GM automatic transmission
Engine bay looks in good overall order
Power steering
Power brakes
We understand the car to be in fine mechanical health
We've no reports of any faults or issues
Ultimately, this looks like a fine opportunity for a much-loved revival of a legendary mid-century car
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. If requested we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]
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1980 Studebaker Avanti II
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