USA vs USA — 1963 vs 1946
| Avanti R2 Supercharged | Champion Regal Starlight Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 289 hp | 85 hp |
| Torque | 335 lb-ft | 120 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 2,786 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.3 sec | 19.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 160 mph | 85 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.3 sec | 22.0 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,750 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,794 mm | 2,921 mm |
| Length | 4,902 mm | 4,953 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,643 | — |
| Original MSRP | — | $1,472 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $30,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged excels in more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1946 Studebaker Champion Regal Starlight Coupe stands out for stronger collectibility, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged and 1946 Studebaker Champion Regal Starlight Coupe share a manufacturer in Studebaker, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Studebaker brand. The 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 289 hp compared to 85 hp, a 204-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Avanti uses a V8 OHV 16V Supercharged displacing 4,736 cc, while the Studebaker Champion relies on a Inline-6 L-Head with 2,786 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged edges ahead at 7.3 seconds versus 19.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged commands a significant premium over the 1946 Studebaker Champion Regal Starlight Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.