Avanti History Unlocked: The Mystery of the "Radio-Dummy"
Can an Avanti be born without a radio? While most enthusiasts view the radio as a standard fixture, Dan Booth uncovers the fascinating history of the "Radio Delete" option through the lens of a unique 1963 Gold Avanti (63R-4301).
In this article, Dan decodes the mysterious "Radio-Dummy" notation found on original factory inspection tickets and reveals the "missing" blueprints for Part Numbers 1350916 and 1350917—the elusive dash control hole covers. Follow the trail of original build sheets and dealer invoices to learn how one budget-minded owner (likely influenced by her speed-loving son) ordered a bare-bones R2 supercharged 4-speed with no power steering and no radio. It’s a masterclass in how "Nostalgic’s Born Reports" preserve the individual stories and rare engineering choices that make every Avanti unique.