I asked the artificial intelligence program, ChatGPT to “Write about the stunning Studebaker Avanti”. Here is the result without any edits from me – except when an error is reported I will then line out the ChatGPT mistake.
Let us know what you think.
by ChatGPT with assistance from Mike Gulett –
The Studebaker Avanti is one of the most iconic and forward-thinking cars ever produced by an American automaker. Introduced in 1962, the Avanti was a daring attempt by Studebaker to redefine luxury, performance, and design in an era dominated by muscle cars and chrome-laden cruisers. With its radical styling, innovative features, and impressive speed, the Avanti remains a highly sought-after classic that continues to turn heads decades after its debut.
A Bold Departure from Tradition
Designed by Raymond Loewy, one of the most influential industrial designers of the 20th century, the Avanti broke away from conventional car design. Its streamlined, aerodynamic shape featured a smooth, sculpted fiberglass body, a long hood, and a short rear deck. Unlike many American cars of its time, the Avanti had no grille—its aggressive, almost futuristic front end was punctuated by round headlights and a low, wide stance. The car looked like nothing else on the road, giving it a timeless and unmistakable presence.
Engineering Innovation
Beyond its eye-catching design, the Avanti was packed with innovative engineering. It was one of the first American production cars to feature disc brakes on all four wheels the front, an advanced safety and performance feature rarely seen in the early 1960s. Its body was made of fiberglass rather than steel, reducing weight while preventing rust. Studebaker engineers also prioritized aerodynamics, allowing the Avanti to achieve higher speeds with improved fuel efficiency.
Performance That Rivaled Muscle Cars
Under the hood, the Avanti offered serious power. Equipped with a 289-cubic-inch V8 engine, the car produced up to 240 horsepower in its base form. However, the real magic happened with the supercharged R2 and R3 versions. The R2 Avanti, featuring a Paxton supercharger, pushed output to around 290 horsepower, while the ultra-rare R3 variant produced over 335 horsepower. These numbers were staggering for the time, making the Avanti one of the fastest American cars of its era.
Studebaker Avanti
In fact, the Avanti set 29 speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats, cementing its reputation as a high-performance machine. With a top speed exceeding 170 mph in its most powerful configuration, the Avanti proved that Studebaker could compete with the best in the industry.
A Short-Lived Masterpiece
Despite its brilliance, the Avanti couldn’t save Studebaker from financial decline. The company ceased production of the Avanti in late 1963 after building only about 4,600 units. However, the Avanti’s story didn’t end there. After Studebaker closed its doors, the car’s design and tooling were acquired by independent investors, leading to the creation of Avanti Motors. The Avanti was produced in various forms under different ownership until the early 2000s, keeping its legacy alive.
A Timeless Classic
Today, the Studebaker Avanti remains a prized collector’s item. Its rarity, innovative design, and high-performance pedigree make it one of the most celebrated American cars of all time. Whether admired for its aesthetics, engineering, or sheer uniqueness, the Avanti continues to captivate enthusiasts and remind the world of Studebaker’s daring final chapter.
Let us know what you think in the Comments.
I met a paraplegic in the mid 80’s in NSW country town of Mullumbimby who owned one in San Diego . It was c perfect for him to roll up to the car is his wheel chair and jump into the driver’s seat and sling the wheel chair into the back and drive away with hand controls fitted
While it is true that the Avanti was the first US production car with disc brakes they we only on the front wheels, rear brakes were standard drums.
William,
Thank you for pointing out the error about disc brakes – I made a correction.
Under $5k in 1963? I had no idea they had cost that much. That’s slightly more than the 1963 Ford Thunderbird which offered a much nicer 4 seat interior. I can see why the 63 T-bird sold over 50,000 units vs the Avanti’s 4,000.
Studebaker could have sold lots more Avanti’s if they could have produced them. Production of the fiberglass bodies was delayed due to numerous issues which probably reduced sales by half or more. Still way below the 63 T-bird which was more of a personal luxury car. The Avanti was a four passenger car though as well. The rear seat is 4″ higher than the front giving rear seat passengers a better forward view. The Avanti was also the fast production car in the world for 1963 at a little over 168 mph in the flying mile, bracketed by Ferrari in 1962 and 1964
Mike,
First, I enjoyed the read and from my limited knowledge of the Avanti, ChatGPT did a good job telling it’s story… Second, I never knew that two models came with super chargers, do you happen to know how many of each were produced? There was no mention regarding the suspension and handling; have you had the chance to get behind the wheel on one and know how they handled, and whether the Avanti was fun to drive?
There were 1552 R2 equipped Avanti’s in 63 model year and 281 R2’s for 64 model year. There were 9 R3 Avanti’s for 64 model year. The suspension was a modified Lark frame but had some enhancements. Overall I would say that my R2 Avanti is the best driving and handling old car I have ever driven. There is a famous picture of Andy Granatelli behind the wheel of an Avanti at the Bonneville salt flats. He has in the car with him 3 reporters from the LA times and the picture is taken over Granatelli’s right shoulder showing the speedometer at 140 MPH and he has his hands in his lap.
I’ve always loved the Avanti. So far more advanced from a styling standpoint than other cars produced then, IMO. I recollect that my dad went to see one and got a scale model of one that I played with as a very young boy back in the day. Too bad he didn’t buy one. I still think the Avanti is one of the most beautiful cars ever made.
This artificial article doesn’t have much personality, but seems thorough and complete. A bit scary if your currently making a living as an automotive writer or journalist.