1963 Avanti History: The "Advance the Market" Contest Discovery
How can a man who purchased his Avanti brand new in 1963 still learn a factory secret 58 years later? In this fascinating case study, Dan Booth explores the history of Avanti R-4009, a Turquoise Supercharged 4-Speed. By cross-referencing the original Build Sheet, Inspection Tickets, and Dealer Cost Invoice, Dan uncovers a rare "Code 99" tag: the "Advance the Market Campaign."
Discover the story of the 1963 Reader's Digest contest where Studebaker gave away 28 Avantis across the U.S. and Canada. Learn how these original documents revealed that this specific car was delivered to the dealership for the sum of "Gratis" (Free) because it was a contest prize before being sold to its lifelong owner. This article highlights the power of the "Nostalgic Born Reports" to provide indisputable evidence of a car's unique factory history.
1963-64 Avanti Build Sheets
(1/2 page) Available for about 99% of the original production
1965-85 Avanti Build Sheets
Available for about 99% of the original production
YOU MUST INCLUDE VIN WHEN ORDERING
1963-64 Avanti Dealers Cost Invoice
(full page) Available for about 15% of the original production
YOU MUST INCLUDE VIN WHEN ORDERING
1963-64 Avanti Dealers Cost Invoice
(full page) Available for about 15% of the original production
YOU MUST INCLUDE VIN WHEN ORDERING