From its inception in 1961 the Avanti
was a unique blend of American industry and European styling.
Its Studebaker lineage, post war
suspension, and Paxton supercharger all reflected its American origin. Nothing says it better than
labeling the torque boxes as "hog
troughs." Yet, its name is Italian and its Raymond
Loewy styling conveyed European GT sophistication inside
and out. James Bond author Ian Fleming and singer Shirley Bassey both bought
Avantis and had them shipped to England. Avanti owners in Switzerland
support a large Avanti owners' association. Potrugeese photographer/designer
Mikio Okamoto's beautifully concieved photo of the Avanti skillfully
blends reality and fantasy.
Julian Poupard's Avanti exhibited at the
Design Museum at Tower Bridge in London, England in 1997.
