1952 Studebaker Champion
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Highlights
- Charming European-built American classic in need of restoration
- Stylishly appointed post-war interior
- Bodywork designed by industrialist Raymond Loewy
- Solid structural condition
- Engine seized and in need of mechanical work
The Appeal
The first ‘Champion’ was released in 1939 and became an immediate hit for its low price and attractive design. The distinctive Ponton styling is very much the work of Raymond Loewy, who designed several other Studebaker motors, railroad locomotives, toasters, buses and the Coca-Cola bottle…
Depending on who you ask, though, it really came into its own in 1946, when the first post-war models hit the roads. The Champion’s new, distinctive shape, bold chrome work and impressive mechanicals made it the flagship of the range for over a decade.
This example is in deceptively good condition, and after a bit of restoration could make for a superb addition to your garage. After all, how many people do you know with a Studebaker in their fleet?
The History and Paperwork
- Sadly we know little about the history of this car
- Part of a substantial collection
- Built in Belgium by D’leteren
- No paperwork provided with sale
- Unmodified example with original paint
The Interior
- An immediately endearing art deco-industrialist interior in need of restoration
- Soft grey and chrome colour scheme with brown headlining and carpets
- Beautifully organised dashboard with an attractive chrome pinnacle
- Chromework in need of a good cleanup with patina across the board
- Painted metal features look to be in good order
- Instrument binnacle looks to be in good order
- Grey fabric bench seats show dotted scuffs, tears and staining
- Original Novak radio
- Headlining in excellent condition
- Glove box in superb order with no major wear
- Door cards are in decent order with some staining and marks to the handles
- Steering wheel looks to be in good order with distinctive branding
- Carpets look to be in poor condition with distinct fraying in the driver’s footwell
- Under the carpets, the floor seems solid with some surface corrosion
- Boot looks to be in fair order with a good spare wheel
The Exterior
- It’s hard to overstate the attractive Loewy-designed bodywork of the Champion
- Beautiful curved shapes and an impressive ‘face’ with plenty of chromework
- In need of restoration throughout, but a good solid example
- Paintwork appears to be original - some clouding, cracking and losses
- Chromework appears to be in decent order with a patina throughout
- Headlight lenses and windows appear to be clean and fracture-free
- No visible dents and dings that we can identify
- Grill could do with a clean-up but is still very impressive
- Original wheels with chrome hubcaps still presenting brightly
- Tyres look to be original and may need replacement
- Arches show extensive surface corrosion but no obvious structural defects
- Underneath the car we can identify surface-level corrosion
- The vendor reports, however, that the vehicle is in solid order with no issues
The Mechanics
- Powered by a 2.8L 6-cylinder engine
- Borg-Warner automatic transmission
- No known modifications made
- Engine has seized after being kept standing for some time
- Brakes are not seized and car is still rolling freely
- Engine bay is in need of a clean and will need some restoration
- Overall, this looks to be a solid candidate for mechanical restoration
Summary
Stylish, and not often seen in Europe - the 3rd generation Champion is a very capable and attractive car. This example is ready and waiting for a new lease of life with the lucky next owner.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Shipping and transfer
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders. For more details, email [email protected].
Vehicle specification
- Year 1952
- Make Studebaker
- Model Champion
- Colour
- Odometer 81 Kilometres
- Engine size 2800
Auction Details
- Seller Type Trade
- Town Morvan
- Location International
- Country France
10 bids
from 4 bidders
- matthew•••• €4,600 31/01/23
- oxar €4,400 31/01/23
- matthew•••• €4,300 31/01/23
- oxar €4,100 31/01/23
- hunter1•••• €4,000 31/01/23
- oxar €3,800 31/01/23
- matthew•••• €3,700 31/01/23
- hunter1•••• €3,500 30/01/23
- panhard•••• €1,600 29/01/23
- hunter1•••• €1,500 25/01/23
The Gallery
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