1953 Studebaker Champion Coupe Project Car - Iconic Loewy Design Cranks Over

Price: - Item location: Helena, Montana, United States
Description:

1953 Studebaker Champion

Up for auction is a true automotive icon: a 1953 Studebaker Champion 2-Door Coupe (Model 14G). This is one of the famous "Loewy Coupes," designed by Raymond Loewy's studio, and is a fantastic candidate for a full restoration.

This car has a wonderful family history. My grandfather began restoring it in the 1990s and, as a preparatory step, properly drained all the fluids for long-term storage. Unfortunately, he fell ill before he could continue the project and has since passed away. We are now offering this classic for sale to someone who can see it through to completion and get it back on the road.

The car is largely complete and comes with a clear 1963 Montana title (see photo). This is a project car that does not currently run or drive, but the engine does crank over.

Mechanical Condition:

  • Engine: The original flat-head 6-cylinder engine is in the car. It cranks over freely with a brand new battery. We believe it will run once the ignition points are set correctly. Ran when stored.

  • Transmission: The condition of the transmission is unknown.

  • Brakes: The entire brake system requires a complete overhaul. The system needs to be rebuilt and have new brake fluid added. The car does not have functioning brakes.

  • Fluids: All major fluids will need to be replenished.

Body & Exterior:

  • The body is straight overall but shows its age. It has the bumps and bruises of a 70+ year-old vehicle.

  • There are areas of surface rust, primarily on the lower rocker panels and behind the front wheel wells (see photos).

  • There are several dents, most notably on the driver's side door and rear quarter panel.

  • The paint is faded and weathered, making it a blank slate for the color of your choice.

  • The chrome trim, bumpers, and grille are present but show pitting and will need re-chroming for a show-quality finish.

  • The glass appears to be all there. Please note the driver's side door glass has a prominent crack/scratch (visible in photos).

Interior:

The interior is original and will require a full restoration. The dashboard appears to be out of the car but is included with the sale.

Extra Parts Included:

The winning bidder will receive boxes of original parts that were removed for the restoration, including:

  • Original instrument cluster/dashboard assembly

  • Original carburetor and heater core assembly

  • Chrome headlight bezels and various mirrors (interior and exterior)

  • Original distributor and wiring

  • (Please see photos for a better look at the included parts)

Title & Paperwork:

Included is the original State of Montana Certificate of Title issued in 1963, as shown in the pictures. This is a physical title. Please be advised: It is the buyer's responsibility to check with their local DMV regarding the process for transferring an old title like this in their state.

Terms of Sale:

  • This vehicle is being sold AS-IS, WHERE-IS with no warranty expressed, written, or implied.

  • The buyer is responsible for all vehicle pickup and transportation arrangements and costs. The vehicle is located in [Enter Your City, State Here].

  • A non-refundable deposit of $500 is due within 24 hours of auction end. Full payment is due within 5 days.

  • Please ask any and all questions before placing a bid. We have described the car to the best of our ability and have provided numerous photos to show its current condition. More photos are available upon request.

This is a rare opportunity to own and restore one of the most beautiful car designs of the 1950s. Happy bidding!