Hot Rods 1949 Studebaker Champion 2 Door Coupe

Hello:

I have an opportunity to purchase 49' Studebaker coupe and would like to get some input from fellow hotrodders and classic car enthusiasts. I have never owned one as I always stayed with Fords and Chevys, but I really like the body style and you do not see them often.
Anyway, the coupe is in really good shape (according to the owner, have not seen it yet), and it is bone stock - Flat six, three on tree and with working overdrive transmission. I would like to keep it stock as much as possible and do not foresee to do any modifications, just have it as a little cool cruiser around town and take something to car meets.

Anyone owns/owned one and can share their experience?

Any input would be greatly appreciate it.

Thank you,

Martin

 

I do ... 1964 - a '53 Champ coupe that belonged to an Electrician's Mate on the destroyer I was assigned to in Bremerton at PSNS. Kinda swarthy looking Texas car, not very much of an attention getter until started. Split manifold, little short resonators or steelpacks, & tailpipes made of 4'' CMO tubing "locally acquired." He'd arc that thing up to about 4 grand in low & back off - it shook the whole shipyard ...

 

Sounds like a cool little car.. Got any pics???

 

Thank you for your responses....yes, it is quite cool! Below is the photo....I am mainly concerned about the general maintenance and parts....I rather be drivin' then wrenchin'.....any other comments on Studebakers would be appreciated.

Thank you.

 

Is that a clean bare metal body I see?? If so, you got a good one there...

 

They were a popular economy car in their day. The 170 cu in 80HP flathead six was very reliable and could get 25 MPG. Not much HP but not much weight either. Plenty of suds for local driving but stay off the interstate. The overdrive may allow you to cruise at 60 or 65 if the engine is in top shape but, don't expect too much.

Well supported by Studebaker fans and specialists. There are quite a few Stude lovers and they like to keep their cars on the road. Same engine and basic mechanicals were used from the late 30s to the early 60s.

You will not have the parts support you would with a Ford or Chev but pretty much everything is available.

I like them and would buy one if I had the chance.

 

Check out the Studebaker Drivers Club on line, a tremendous amount of knowledge available there, I should know, you can tell by my Avatar


Sent from my iPad using The H.A.M.B. mobile app

 

Neat little car, Martin.
There is a huge following for Studebaker. Their yearly National meet regularly has 1000 or more cars, I have heard. Attended one in Springfield, MO a few years back. Did I say HUGE? Trucks, hot rodded, costume. They have it all.
Look for www. studebakerdriversclub.com.

And with respect to driving the Freeway, would not scare me.

Ben

 

I think I have seen that car for sale on CL. I love the business coupe body style. I also prefer the 47-49 front end over the bullet nose 50-51 front end. A 50 champion front clip will fit if you must have a bullet nose. At least with the body in clear, you don't have to wonder what is under the paint. If I had the money I would be all over it. I would strip the clear and paint it though.

 

Thank you all for your responses....yep, it is a bare metal with clear coat, and I cannot see any sign of rust/rot (the seller sent me bunch of pics)....and the undercarriage looks decent too.

I will check out the website you guys recommended for further info, but your comments make me feel rather positive should I decide to pull a trigger on this one.

Much appreciated, Martin

 

I had a 59 lark 2 door hatdtop. Stock flatty with a T5, drove it everywhere no problem.

 

THE WIFE HAS A 1947 CONVERTIBLE

 

Wow! To be 70 years old and sheet metal that straight, rust free. Absolutely amazing.

Sent from my SM-S320VL using Tapatalk... Gary from Virginia

 

If you are not familiar with the old long stroke flathead sixes they typically 'punch above their weight' meaning the long stroke high torque design lets you idle down to 10 MPH, punch it and pull away without stalling or bucking. In normal suburban and rural driving they are easy to drive and have enough power to keep up with traffic even though on paper they have about enough HP for a lawn tractor or motorcycle.

They also continue to run without fuss even in an advanced state of wear. It could seem to be running ok but sluggish while compression is way down and the engine is only producing half the power it should. Fortunately they are easy and cheap to rebuild. But, a compression test is a good idea and have a look at the oil pressure too. Even with good compression and oil pressure they need regular tuneups to maintain peak power.

 

Thank you sir for the additional information and pointers....I really appreciate it!

 

Yes sir....it looks really straight and clean!