USA vs USA — 1946 vs 1964
| Avanti R2 Supercharged | Avanti R3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 289 hp | 335 hp |
| Torque | 320 lb-ft | 380 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.3 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 170 mph | 160 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 13.8 sec |
| Weight | 3,301 lbs | 3,400 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,769 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,870 mm | 4,927 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,643 | 9 |
| Original MSRP | $4,445 | $6,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $350,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 1964 Studebaker Avanti R3 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity. The 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged counters with higher top speed, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Studebaker Avanti lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged with the 1964 Studebaker Avanti R3 reveals how Studebaker refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1964 Studebaker Avanti R3 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 335 hp compared to 289 hp, a 46-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Avanti uses a V8 Paxton Supercharged R2 displacing 4,736 cc, while the Studebaker Avanti relies on a V8 OHV Supercharged with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Studebaker Avanti R3 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 7.3 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 9 units built, the 1964 Studebaker Avanti R3 is considerably scarcer than the Studebaker Avanti's 4,643 examples. On the collector market, the 1964 Studebaker Avanti R3 commands a significant premium over the 1946 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1964 Studebaker Avanti R3 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.