what's the difference between an r1 and r2 avanti?

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The main difference between the **R1** and **R2** Avanti is the supercharger!

**R1** (like the car you're looking at):
- 289 cubic inch V8 with **240 horsepower**
- Naturally aspirated (no supercharger)
- 10.25:1 compression ratio
- Could be ordered with **air conditioning**
- Base engine - most common

**R2** (the hot rod version):
- Same 289 cubic inch V8 but with a **Paxton SN-60 centrifugal supercharger**
- **289 horsepower** - that's 49 more ponies!
- 9.0:1 compression ratio (lower to handle boost)
- **No A/C** - the supercharger took up the space
- Cost about $210 more when new

Both engines share the same "Jet Thrust" DNA - things like 4-barrel carbs, high-lift cams, dual exhaust, and dual-point distributors. But the R2 was the performance choice, helping the Avanti hit 0-60 in around 9.5 seconds with the 4-speed.

**Value-wise**, the R2 commands a premium these days. I see them typically selling for $40K-$65K, while R1s like yours tend to be in the $25K-$40K range. That said, your burgundy R1 looks like a sweet driver with all those nice options (power stuff, aftermarket stereo) - perfect for cruising without the supercharger maintenance headaches!

Want me to check out any R2 models that might be available, or are you pretty happy with this R1?

1963 Studebaker Avanti R1

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1963 Studebaker Avanti R1

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