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Story
James Murray retired after 35 years in Georgia Law Enforcement. With time to pursue his interest, he proceeded to find parts to build a twin of his favorite long-lost car: a 1963 Studebaker Avanti. Unfortunately, that original car was scrapped in a rush to sell his family home in Massachusetts.
Persistence paid off. his search was successful. The body, frame, engine and transmission are all rebuilt original. Studebaker parts are not easy to come by, in fact, Most are new old stock, Specialists were called upon to refresh the exterior fiberglass, paint and refinish chrome. Interior upholstery was a lengthy process to find the color. Crafting the detail necessary was a job left to upholstery masters who concentrate on only Studebaker patterns.
With many hours, days and nights spent cleaning and refinishing small and large parts, plus months of internet searches, plus new acquaintances and friends' advice, the car was completed in 2011. Many car shows brought interest from friends in various clubs and organizations. Strangers stories recalled of how they "Always wanted an Avanti!"
Showing this car in NC, TN and GA pointed to the fact that even judges, especially those under 50 years old, don't know about and have never seen this model. In general, most don't know that Studebaker even existed. There is no "class" to define this masterpiece in design or function. Undoubtedly, with its numerous 1960's speed records, it is still a formidable contender as a worthy street car today.