1964 Studebaker Daytona R2 Convertible Tribute

For consignment, a 1964 Studebaker Daytona R2 convertible tribute showing 32,477 miles which are not actual.  Only 48 actual Studebaker Daytona's from 1964 were combined the R2 supercharged V8 with a convertible top, so finding one is a proverbial needle in the haystack.  This is a faithful tribute to one rare unicorn.  

Exterior
The somewhat boxy body wears white on its base which is adorned with a black canvas convertible top accentuated by the black spear just below the shoulder line, pointed at both ends and bordered by metal trim.  Inset headlight bezels have angular sides that dictate the unusual shape of the grille and will likely not be mistaken for another brand due to the V-shaped edges, and it wears a Studebaker R2 badge.  In back, tail lights cap the protruding decklid while the latch panel is tucked under it and retains a prominent body fold that is a continuation of a rear fender accent which has a mirror line on the front fender, more visually muted on white paint.  Some contrast is brought in with the 15-inch argent gray American Racing Torque Thrust wheels, with polished rims and 215/75R15's at each corner.  The canvas top is in great shape and so is the metal work and emblems that include Daytona in script and a coveted Avanti R2 Supercharged oval.  Panels are straight, paint is great, and we could not find any glaring exterior imperfections on this rare car.

Interior
Contrasting with the white exterior, we're greeted with red vinyl door cards with simple embossed designs and a Studebaker dress plate.  Red vinyl covers the bucket seats and center console, presenting in excellent condition.  Same with the back bench that has a hideaway arm rest and button backed vinyl upholstery in good condition.  The red plastic steering wheel has ridged hand grips built in with a white upper and lower rim, while a robust, stirrup shaped horn ring rides the wheel.  Beyond the tachometer mounted on the column is an instrument panel that puts round gauges in square boxes of trim with white plastic toggle switches below in a woodgrain panel.  A bit of patina here but we love the original presentation along with the ivory knobbed AM/FM radio in the center where we also find an added boost gauge mounted below.  A stout metal shifter rides the hump in a polished base, all surrounded by plush red carpet that shows some fading on the upper surfaces, as is common in convertibles while foot wells retain sharp color.  The trunk is clean and covered with a loose fitting plaid mat which also encases the spare.  

Drivetrain
Here's the money shot!  Mounted atop the 289ci V8 is a bright orange Paxton supercharger taking center stage while a 4-barrel carburetor feeds this representation of an engineering showpiece which is backed by a Borg Warner 3-speed automatic transmission sending power to the rear axle and 3.54 gears.  Chrome valve covers and polished airbox further dress this engine which is clean and show worthy.  New brake pads have been added to the power disc brakes in front, while power drums are reserved for the back.  

Undercarriage
Driver quality underneath with typical use patina, some surface rust, and some drops on the transmission pan with residual fluid on the rear differential.  Dual exhaust runs from the engine to a pair of FlowMaster mufflers, into a stainless connector, then out to steel tailpipes that exit via polished tips just beyond the rear bumper.  Coil springs are found up front for suspension while leaf springs are out back. 

Drive-Ability
They say there's "no replacement for displacement" but that's not always the case and in 1964, forced induction was still a bit exotic.  The supercharger provides extra juice here and we take our place in the driver's seat and crank up the 289.  Even with the soft top up, visibility is quite good, and the large, clear rear window helps.  The car tracks straight with good acceleration as boost increases and its square stance and high walled tires provides smooth handling as well and the Daytona hints at some of its racing pedigree.  Meanwhile, all functional items check the boxes on this well sorted Studebaker.  While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase. 

Studebakers enjoy one of the most enthusiastic followings of any orphan brand and are some of the best documented cars for the era.  The build sheet reveals this stunning car was born without the go fast goodies but has been dressed up to honor one of the cars that is somewhat legendary in Studebaker circles.  You can eat your cake and have it too with this R2 look alike.  It's like buying a ticket to a tribute band, all the great music without the high price! 

64V9157

64-1964
V-V8
2609-Sequential Unit Number

Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person. There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee is not included in the advertised price.