1958 Studebaker Champion

The GR Auto Gallery is pleased to present this Classic Studebaker Champion for your consideration. This Champion comes in a two-tone Burgundy and cream paint job complemented by a matching interior. Powering this Classic is a 185ci 3.0 Liter inline 6 paired to a smooth-shifting three on the tree 3-speed manual transmission. This Studebaker is special because this is the last year they made the Champion, and this Studebaker is one of only 1,455 Champions made in 1958. This Classic still does require leaded gas or lead additive. This Studebaker comes from a private collection where the car was only driven on nice days and stored indoors. So if you are in the market for a classic that you don't see every day this is the car for you! Please call or email us today for more information.

The success of the Champion in 1939 was imperative to Studebaker's survival following weak sales during the 1938 model year. Unlike most other cars, the Champion was designed from a "clean sheet", and had no restrictions caused by necessarily utilizing older parts or requiring the subsequent use of its components in heavier vehicles. Market research guided the selection of features, but a key principle adhered to was the engineering watchword "weight is the enemy." For its size, it was one of the lightest cars of its era. Its compact straight-six engine outlasted the model itself and was produced to the end of the 1964 model year, with a change to an OHV design in 1961.
The Champion was one of Studebaker's best-selling models because of its low price (US $660 for the 2-door business coupe in 1939, equal to $12,279 today), durable engine, and styling. The car's ponton styling was authored by industrial designer Raymond Loewy who had been under contract with Studebaker for the design of their automobiles. Champions won Mobilgas economy runs by posting the highest gas mileage tests. During World War II, Champions were coveted for their high mileage at a time when gas was rationed in the United States.

To see over 80 photos of this car, including undercarriage please visit our website www.grautogallery.com