Studebaker
made "running changes" to correct various engineering
oversights. Thirty cars made in July of 1963 are referred to
as transitional or 1963 1/2 models. The largest number of changes
were made in August of 1963 and these are considered the changes
that defined the 1964 model, however, the company introduced
changes throughout the production
period. All new models go through this process and the Avanti
was no exception. Most of the "running changes" were
made to improve flaws that affected basic functions. The most
obvious changes in appearance were the square headlamp bezels
and the solid color interiors. The rear window fastening was
redone twice because the window popped out of the frame at speeds
above 100 mph!
Tenite panels and woodgrain wheel
phased in as standard.
Aug 63
Rear quarter window latch redesigned.
Stronger hinge for console box lid. Console control handles
round instead of flat. Rubber door sill plate redesigned. Headlamp
bezels changed from round to square. Parking lights restyled.
Radiator grille added. Hood support moved from left to right.
Air intake grille added to left side of cowl. Air duct to automatic
transmissions on cars without a/c. Long battery replaced by
standard-shaped battery. Valve-lifter cover (center valley plate)
painted, not chromed. Inside air intake openings given plastic
grilles. Solid-color interiors (including black) standard. Inside
door panel "S" emblems standard. Rear window fastening
again redesigned. Pleated "Regal" vinyl upholstery
standard (previously optional). Perforated delux vinyl upholstery
dropped. Carpet option reduced to black only. Fender plate changed
to read "Super-charged Avanti" instead of "Supercharged."
Sep 63
Electric window cable shield added
to cable between body and door. Manifold pressure guage face
redesigned. Thicker padding for bucket seat backs.
Dec 63
Factory announced
phase-out of production. (production actually ceased in November).
