The name Commander was used throughout most of the Studebaker Companies existence. It appeared in the 1920's and used consistently by the company with the exception of a few years, those being 1936 and 1959-1963. The Commander name had many duties during its existence with some of those denoting the companies premium model range.
The postwar Studebaker Commander had been the work of Virgil Exner and Raymon Loewy. Its bullet-nosed front end and use of chrome trim gave the vehicle a distinct appearance. Power was from a 233 cubic-inch overhead valve V8 that continued to rise in power as the years progressed. In 1952, the Commander was chose as the Indianapolis 500 Pace Car.
The 1951 Studebaker Commander State Convertible Coupe finished in red with red interior was offered for sale at the 2006 RM Auction in Monterey, CA where it was estimated to sell between $40,000-$60,000. It was offered without reserve. Since new, the vehicle has undergone a comprehensive restoration that included work being done to the chrome, paint and upholstery. On auction day the car did sell, netting $49,500. | |
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