I wasn’t looking for another car. However. some friends of mine were on the hunt for a new ride and decided to head out to the Macungie car show in Pennsylvania. I tagged along, more out of curiosity than anything else, though I’ve always had a soft spot for Studebakers. There’s something about their styling, their uniqueness, their place in American automotive history. I never expected to leave with anything more than a few photos and maybe a T-shirt. But that changed quickly.

While we were at the show, someone mentioned a Pro-Street 1963 Studebaker Avanti that was floating around. My interest was piqued, so we went to take a look. The moment I laid eyes on it, I was in love. There was no gradual process, no back-and-forth. It was instant.

Before I made any moves, though, I had to be sure, really sure, that my friends weren’t interested in it. After all, they were the ones actively searching. Luckily for me, they had their hearts set on something with air conditioning. That cleared the way. I made my offer, closed the deal, and just like that, I became the proud owner of a Pro-Street Avanti.

This car is a lot more machine than anything I’ve owned before. It’s got a 454 big-block engine bored out to 468 cubic inches, and it rolls on massive 31-inch rear tires. The power, the stance, the sheer attitude is taking some time to get used to. But every time I take her out, I get a little more comfortable, and I push it just a little further.

1963 Studebaker Avanti Pro-Street Specs:

• Engine: 454 Big Block Chevy, bored to 468 CID
• Transmission: Turbo 400
• Rear Tires: 31-inch wide (Pro-Street setup)
• Suspension & Chassis: Modified for drag-style stance and handling
• Body: Classic Avanti lines, fiberglass body
• Condition: Show-ready, built to drive, not just sit in a garage
• Comp Cams, 280 magnum camshaft
• Hoosier 31×18.5/15 Tires
• TCI Ratchet shifter
• 9-inch Ford rear with 4.11 traction lock
• Aluminum Heads

For someone who wasn’t even in the market, I found something truly special. Sometimes, the best cars find you.