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| Dozens of Avanti "Road
Tests" have been published over the decades. Most are predominately
technical evaluations by the staff of major automotive magazines.
Preproduction analysis tended
to be speculative and frequently expressed excitement and praise
for the new GT from South Bend. In the spring of 1962 when the
Avanti had been displayed at the New York International Auto
Show, but before the first cars reached the showrooms, interest
in the car was high and public reaction was positive. During
Studebaker production, many more
road tests followed. Avanti II
also received considerable attention when launched in 1966.
The car continued to be reviewed through the 1970s. In the early
1980s Stephen Blake revived interest
in the car and more road tests followed. |
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An early production-model Avanti was ready,
despite a UAW strike, by April 1962, for the New York
International Auto Show.
It was a sensation. It was called startling, unconventional,
sizzling, elegant, and a "knock-out." Avanti's looks
got it noticed, but it was its early track record that set it
apart from the competition. Andy Granatelli
at Bonneville shattered 29 U.S. records in 12 hours. Studebakers
(including Avantis) smashed 337 different USAC records in six
classes. Its styling and performance were both exceptional.
Canada Track & Traffic called it "A bold,
fresh concept with an undeniable feeling of motion that makes
Avanti's competitors seem decidedly old-fashioned."
Sportscar World said "Studebaker's
startling Avanti has caused raised eyebrows among diehards in
the American motor industry, who have already nicknamed it America's
'Ferrari'." |
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