1963 Studebaker Wagonaire Daytona

Before the crossover, or all-activity vehicle, was the station wagon. A car that you could pile the kids into or utilize the rear of the car for cargo, but with limited height. Unknowingly, Studebaker had set the tone for every tricked-out sunroof, moonroof and multi-panel retractable roof to follow, SUV or not. Its potential uses are myriad. It's really easy to picture a Wagonaire backed up to a stream or boat ramp with some angler standing right up in the back and casting trout flies through the open roof. Or maybe a clutch of kids with Dad under a lean-to stretched from the car to the tree. Or just natural air conditioning.

Not a car one sees every day, or even once in a while, this Studebaker Wagonaire Daytona is a rare find. 1963 was the last-ditch effort to save the company with this innovative design, and this is an example of that car. In progress restoration, and only partially, this car is in need of tender loving care, and expertise of a true restorer, will in the end will have something not everyone sees even in a great once in a while.

Exterior
Bare metal, bondo and body putty make up the exterior skin panels. The hood and front fenders appear to be mostly finished, and remainder of metal shell is in need of work. Sliding roof is in working condition, as is tailgate, however rust through is evident in hinge of tailgate. Roof appears to have original color, with A and B pillars in rust free condition, painted as well. Rocker panels show rusting under drivers and passengers rear doors, as well as rust present under rear seats. Careful inspection of underside photos of this vehicle will speak volumes as to the extent of the restorative process that will need to go into this vehicle.

Interior
Original and in overall fair condition. Vinyl is rip free except for the driver's side rear seat, which has been ripped by the hinge mechanism. Carpet is stained and shows some rotting and discoloration from water damage. Original dash, steering wheel, and controls are present, and in fair condition. The odometer shows 06811 miles, and actual mileage is not known. An AM radio, a vanity pop down glove box lid reveals a hidden mirror, as well as drink holder and an air conditioning unit is present. Door panels are original and in good condition.

Drivetrain
This 1963 Daytona version of the Wagonaire equipped with a 259.2 OHV V8, fed by a 2-barrel Stromberg carburetor. A three-speed automatic transmission is put into action by a column mounted shifter. Engine shows some corrosion on air conditioning compressor but runs very quietly and smoothly. 4-wheel drum brakes are present, and original differential is attached and working.

Documentation and Extras
This consignment includes trim which has not been attached to the bodywork due to the current work which was going on to the exterior. Rubber floor mats are present in passenger rear, and in wagon compartment.

A true “Henstooth” in the rough, this rare version of the 1963 Daytona Wagonaire is in need of the right person to bring it back and have a real treasure and a piece of automotive history. Looks are deceiving, and the sound of the smooth-running engine will prove this statement. Come by Classic Auto Mall, and give it a test drive, you may fall in love!

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 100 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. A 450 barn find collection is currently on display.
This vehicle is 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.