Thread: R-3 Avanti (muile)

IMHO, If the car can be independently documented as an engineering prototype R3 and all the original parts are there, then $15k is a bargain. However, until one of our experts has done the due diligence, it's a crap shoot.

We couldn't count the similar South Bend legends, such as the "factory-supercharged '59 Larks", the '56 Golden Hawks with 2x4bbls from the factory", "the special-ordered C-cab pickups with a supercharger and 4-speed" and "Avanti R4s" and many others which have come through here over the years.

Until proven, The Legend of the Lost R3 Prototype" is just that.

jack vines

Originally Posted by kmul221

I posted a thread about this Avanti 2nd week in Sept.The owner finally got back to me in reference to price.He thinks it should be worth $15k & it would cost me $1500. to get it to my door from west coast to Ontario.It runs & drives but needs paint etc.etc..There is a video of the car at Bonneville salt flats when it was red in colour.I think this is a bit pricey as I already have a GT I'm upside down in & fear I will be in the same boat with this if I pay his asking price.Below is a link to previoue thread & some photo's.What do you guys think about the deal ?

https://forum.studebakerdriversclub.c...ght=R-3+Avanti

Tough decision Kevin. If that engine is a real R3 Crate it is worth his asking price. I don't think you should let this go, but don't bring your life into hardship over it either... If I were you and KNEW this was a Granitelli R3 engine I would buy it in a heartbeat no question about it. There are too many things on that engine that look R3 it makes one wonder. What are the head casting numbers? If you decide to pass, Consider me for this purchase I may/would go into short term debt for it hard ship and all.

Allen

Regardless of whether it's a factory mule or not, so much depends on the engine. You need the casting numbers from the block and the cylinder heads. If it's a genuine R3 block, it has value no matter if it was installed by the factory or by someone else. Some of the cylinder heads installed on R3 engines were R2 heads so that affects the value some as well. If it's a genuine R3 block with genuine R3 heads...you've got quite a find...again...regardless of who installed it in the car.