Founded in 1852, Studebaker produced wagons, carriages, and harnesses before transitioning into the automotive industry in 1902. In 1904, it started producing electric automobiles before switching to gasoline-powered ones. By the start of World War II, Studebaker had established a track record for excellence, dependability, and durability.
After World War II, the Indiana-based automaker was one of the first to release all-new models. In 1947, the Starlight coupe was introduced. The flat trunk lid and wraparound back window of this car had an impact on the entire industry. Virgil Exner was the designer of the Starlight. The “bullet nose” style language was introduced by Studebaker in 1950, giving its automobiles a futuristic appearance in comparison to those of competing brands.
Unfortunately, the Ford-GM price war of the early 1950s pushed Studebaker on the verge of bankruptcy and into an unsuccessful merger with Packard. The company closed shop in 1967.
More than 50 years later, models like the Avanti and the Golden Hawk are enjoying a cult following, and some examples are changing hands for big bucks. On the other hand, most Studebaker nameplates don’t get the attention they deserve. In short, junkyards are littered with Commanders, Presidents, Champions, and Larks.
That’s a sad sight for a Studebaker enthusiast like me, and that’s why I get all hyped up when someone saves a less desirable car. Just like YouTube’s “Vice Grip Garage” just did with a 1948 Champion.
This third-generation Studebaker was retired in 1976 and was located somewhere in Illinois. Before our host bought it, it sat in an old garage for a remarkable 45 years. This Champion was off the road for 47 years because he stored it in a field for a few years. And because the hood has been stuck ever since, not a single gasp.
Despite the fact that cars like this are typically disassembled, our host chose to give it another try and get it going. After nearly fifty years, getting the old inline-six engine to start was quite a challenge. The fact that the Champion still has its original mill is even greater news.
If you’re not familiar with the third-generation full-size, it was offered from 1947 to 1952 with 170-cubic-inch (2.8-liter) straight-six engines. When the lump was first introduced, it had 80 horsepower; in 1950, that number increased to 85. By today’s standards, not much power, yet plenty at the time.
The car itself is also in surprisingly good condition. There’s not a lot of body rust to talk about, and the interior looks decent, save for some damage on the seats and the door panels. Sure, it still needs a complete restoration to look like new, but it could become a nice survivor without major (and expensive) intervention. Check out this weathered green beauty in the video below.