1973 Avanti II RQ-B review from North America
"When the Raymond Loewy team designed this car, they simply created a classic ("cosmic") beauty"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Old window and doors seal replacement.
Usual type maintenance & upkeep after 30 years.
Steel Torque Boxes (frame to fiberglass body medium) replaced.
General comments?
The Avanti II (1966 - 1982) was an updated version of the Studebaker Avanti original - which was massed produced. This model was custom built 'by hand' at the same plant, in small numbers, by mostly the same workforce.
The main difference was that contemporary GM engines and drivetrains were used.
When you buy an 'Avanti' of any era, (1963 - 2005), you are primarily buying the classic design - which has been essentially the same over the years. The modern 2005 model, although re-created by one of the original designers, still carries the same 'DNA' as the original.
It's a great car to drive and because of its comtemporay looks, it gets lots of attention from the public - who often think of it as being from Europe, even though it is also a collector car.
Recommended Reviews:
  | One of the best and most beautiful cars ever made |
| Its class and distinction of being unique were unsurpassed |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1973 |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 350 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 135000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 165000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 5th March, 2005 |