Studebaker Avanti

vs

BMW 3.0 CSi

USA vs West Germany — 1963 vs 1971

Studebaker Avanti (1963)
BMW 3.0 CSi (1971)
Specifications
Avanti R2 Supercharged3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe
Horsepower289 hp200 hp
Torque335 lb-ft192 lb-ft
Engine Size4,736 cc2,985 cc
0-60 mph7.3 sec7.0 sec
Top Speed160 mph137 mph
¼ Mile15.3 sec15.0 sec
Weight3,086 lbs
Wheelbase2,794 mm2,625 mm
Length4,902 mm4,660 mm
Units Produced4,6438,199
Original MSRP$10,500
Value (Excellent)$80,000$180,000
Collectibility5/108/10
Rarity7/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged brings more power, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1971 BMW 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe answers with quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between USA and West Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged versus 1971 BMW 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 289 hp compared to 200 hp, a 89-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 BMW 3.0 CSi relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,985 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 BMW 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 7.3 seconds. On the collector market, the 1971 BMW 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 BMW 3.0 CSi Fuel-Injected Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.