There was just one model and one body style produced by Avanti Motor Corporation for most of the smog-era. We’ll use “II” as the model, though we acknowledge that some folks consider the “II” as part of the manufacturer name…
II, 20th Anniversary Edition
II
The Avanti II was still based on its Studebaker roots in 1973. It was only available in the Studebaker-Avanti-traditional coupe form. Powering it was a 400 CID 4bbl Chevrolet V8 which was backed by a 3-speed TH400 automatic transmission. It made 245 horsepower this year. The option list was a 70s dream lineup. It offered a Hurst-shifted 4-speed manual trans, a Blaupunkt stereo, electric sunroof, Cibie fog lamps, Borrani knock-off-hub wire wheels, and whitewall tires among others. A limited slip differential was also available to those seeking more performance .
In 1974, horsepower dropped to 180. For 1975 the II was essentially a carryover, including the same 180 hp rating. Power dropped yet again in 1976 to 175. Also for 1976, a new major option was added, Magnum 500 wheels— another 70s staple.
In 1977 the 400 V8 was dropped, replaced with a 350 CID 4bbl Chevrolet V8. Horsepower went up slightly from the previous year’s 400 V8 to 180. The transmission was also downgraded to a TH350 automatic. Power stayed the same for 1978. A small power boost to 185 was seen for 1979. Up once more in 1980 to 195.
1981 brought bad news, sort of. The 350 V8 was dumped in favor of a 305 CID 4bbl V8. Horsepower dropped quite a bit with the new engine to just 155.
The big news for 1982 was that the transmission was now a 4-speed 200-4R automatic. The final year we cover here, 1983, was a carryover from 1982.
20th Anniversary Edition
In 1983, Avanti Motors got a new owner. Halfway through the year, a 20th Anniversary Edition was introduced in recognition of the first Studebaker Avantis. The most obvious changes were the rectangular headlamps and unique wheels. There was also less chrome on the exterior. This was the direction that all future Avantis would take. This car was powered by a 305 CID 4bbl V8, backed by a 700-R4 four speed transmission.
