1950 Studebaker Champion

Studebaker had entered post-WWII production using pre-war designs. They worked on designs during the war and were able to beat most other automakers to the market with their all-new 1947 line. Most other marques wouldn't introduce all-new designs for at least another year. The new Studebaker designs were streamlined with wrap-around windshields, curvaceous bodies, and iconic styling cues. For 1950, Raymond Loewy's team introduced a futuristic front-end inspired by the space age. The bullet-nosed style was controversial, but 1950 Studebakers sold very well, making it Studebakers record high in sales. The Starlight Coupe has a wraparound rear windshield that was used since 1947. The automatic transmission was available on all Studebakers mid-year, but it was not very popular because the car had a small 6-cylinder powerplant. When a V8 became available the following year, the automatic became a much more attractive choice.

The other model in the 1950 Studebaker was the Commander, available in Deluxe, Regal, and Land Cruiser trim levels and powered by a 245.6 cubic-inch six-cylinder engine producing 102 horsepower. The Champion had a 169.6 cubic-inch engine and delivered 85 horsepower. It had four main bearings, solid valve lifters, and a Carter one-barrel carburetor.

The Champion had three trim levels, the Custom Line, Deluxe Line, and the Regal Deluxe Line. A 2- and 4-door sedan, coupe, and Starlight Coupe body styles were offered on the Custom Line with prices ranging from $1,420 to $1,520. The Deluxe Line had the same body styles as the Custom Line, with prices that ranged from $1,500 to $1,600. Custom models were devoid of hood ornaments, and the Regal Deluxe line added stainless steel rocker panel moldings. The Regal Deluxe line had the same body styles as the other two trim levels, plus a convertible priced at $1,980.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2001