USA vs Italy — 1963 vs 1963
| Avanti R2 Supercharged | 250 GT Lusso | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 289 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 335 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 2,953 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.3 sec | 7.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 160 mph | 150 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.3 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,888 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,794 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,902 mm | 4,440 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,643 | 350 |
| Original MSRP | — | $13,275 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $3,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged excels in more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso stands out for quicker acceleration, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged against the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Italy. The 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 289 hp compared to 240 hp, a 49-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 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso relies on a V12 SOHC with 2,953 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso edges ahead at 7.2 seconds versus 7.3 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 350 units built, the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso is considerably scarcer than the Studebaker Avanti's 4,643 examples. On the collector market, the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso commands a significant premium over the 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.