1940 Studebaker Champion 2-Door Coupe

A car company started by a band of German brothers, was known from the very beginning, and throughout its history, for innovative design, and use of technology. In fact, the first “horseless carriage” produced by the Studebaker Brothers, was electric. Throughout the history of the company, management fought to compete with the big three, but proved to be a very difficult, uphill battle, due to sheer volume differences.

This Loewy designed “slipstream” automobile is all about looking like it's moving when standing still, gas saving and clean lines, peppered with Art Deco styling. For consignment, we present to you, "Anthony", a 1940 Studebaker Champion Business Coupe in older restored condition. The paint and interior were done in 1990 and are holding up well with a slew of extra parts included. A very nice example of a 1940 post market crash, fair priced automobile, that would see one of Studebaker's largest output since the early 1920's

Exterior
Overall black with thin chrome “belt trim” goes along each side, and adds to the concept of motion while standing still. Two die-cast grilles with vertical vanes sit low in the front fenders while flanking a horizontally vaned center grille assembly with a large single-bar bumper giving ample protection from minor collisions. A chrome-plated ornament with a wispy “S” on an oxblood-red field graces the leading edge of the hood. This emblem melts back into a trim line that spits the hood and runs back to the dual pane windshield. Pontoon style fenders, part of Loewry's design, are on the front with semi-integral headlights and swoop back into the tapered rockers, so long running boards. Another die-cast Studebaker ornament is centered below the decklid. The stylized taillights present following the peak of the rear fenders and are mounted as such. 16" Studebaker dog dish trimmed steel wheels are on the corners and are wrapped in 5.50-16 medium width whitewall rubber.

Interior
The interior features a maroon deluxe banjo steering wheel complete with a central horn button with its wispy "S" logo. Rich broadcloth upholstery with vertical and horizontal stitching makes up the door panels with a circular insert around the window crank. Bright chrome appears for the cranks and door releases along with maroon bakelite bezels and trimmings. Art Deco styling is very present here in particular within the taupe steel dash area with the instrumentation. This includes a circular speedometer in front of the driver and a large circular chrome and black Studebaker emblem in front of the passenger. Residing in the center of the dash is a waterfall of chrome flanked on both sides by auxiliary gauges to monitor engine vitals. Clean gold carpeting covers the floors and behind the seat we see a small vinyl covered compartment to store your samples and wares while on a business call. Finishing off the roof is a tight tan broadcloth headliner.

Drivetrain
This Champion is powered by a six-cylinder L-head engine, which traced its heritage back to the 1932 Rockne 65. In 1940, displacement was at 164.3 cubic inches and horsepower at 76. This power plant was one of the most efficient engines then being produced with Studebaker claiming 27.25mpg. A 1bbl carburetor feeds this fuel efficient mill and on the back is a 3-speed manual transmission. Bringing up the tail end is a 4.56 geared rear axle. Showing with some patina and road dirt this engine bay is well sorted and just needs a freshening to be topflight.

Undercarriage
The car's suspension features transverse leaf springs in the front and traditional leaf springs in the rear. Houdaille lever-type shocks were used front and rear in conjunction with the springs. We note hydraulic drum brakes on all for corners and a single exhaust system to handle noxious fume removal. Overall, the undercarriage is solid with only minor surface rust on the suspension, meanwhile the frame and flooring remain strong and rust free with a coating of black rustproofing.

Drive-Ability
A quick starter for this classic, smooth idling, and after sliding the shifter into 1st gear we were off to the test track. Here it accelerated from a standstill respectfully and got up to speed quickly with no complaints and shifted smoothly. Handling was good, and brakes were nice and quick to react. A good cruiser and head turner for sure with all functions operational.

If you are looking for an iconic Studebaker, this car deserves some of your time. A good quality older restoration on a beautifully styled automobile from the early 1940's. Instantly starts up and has a smooth-running engine, wonderful ride, and fuel efficient, a very nice example indeed is offered. Take this car to the drive in, and catch Citizen Kane, or just give a listen to Chattanooga Choo Choo on the radio.

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 650 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.