When Studebaker stopped building cars in the U.S. at the end of calendar 1963, it looked like the end of the short-lived Avanti. But two Stude dealers came to the rescue, bought the name, inventory, and production capacity and the Avanti II would live on for decades. At first, they were the same as the originals but with Chevrolet drivetrains. Over time, they would evolve cosmetically, and a convertible was added to the mix, like this nice one from 1989. It has only 10,500 miles and would look great in your driveway!

Only 4,640 copies of the original 1963-64 Avanti’s were built before Studebaker’s fiscal crisis caught up with them. Avanti Motor Car Co. was launched in 1965 to carry the Avanti torch. Things went well for a few years as the annual production was 150-200 hand-built units per calendar. Then several ownership changes occurred and the last Avanti (the II had been dropped) was assembled in 2006 with a Ford Mustang chassis and engine.

The 1989 Avanti was offered as both a coupe and convertible and the engine of choice was a 350 cubic inch Chevy V8 that normally saw duty in the Corvette. This example is said to be one of about 100 built with the soft top and it has survived well over the years. A dealer/collector has possession of it now in Glendale, Arizona, an automobile that spent much of its life in sunny California. The body looks good, and the light blue metallic paint may only have a small chip or two here and there.

As you would expect, this is a luxury car, so it is loaded with all sorts of electronic goodies and gadgets. It also has wire wheels that the seller will substitute (for $1,200 extra) for a custom set (not pictured). Its running order seems to be fine, and the seller can facilitate delivery for the buyer if needed. Trades are possible though cash is king at $24,995 here on craigslist. Another cool tip brought it us by T.J. — and let the Sunshine in!