1951 Studebaker Commander State Convertible

In the postwar era, Studebaker claimed 'First by Far with a Postwar Car.' Their dramatic Starlight coupe was introduced in 1947, and sales were strong, seeing levels not seen before the war. Studebaker achieved eighth place in the industry for 1949 before setting into a steady ninth as other automakers' production caught up with demand.

For 1950, Studebaker introduced their automatic transmission, developed in conjunction with Borg Warner. 1950 was also the year the cars were face-lifted with the aircraft-inspired 'bullet-nose' design. The following year, a V-8 engine was offered, a first for an independent automaker. The engine was a sturdy overhead-valve design that remained in production for over a decade.

This Studebaker Commander State Convertible is finished in light yellow with a saddle tan interior and a canvas top. It was restored in 1987 and has aged rather nicely. The engine is a 232.6 cubic-inch overhead valve V-8 that offers 120 horsepower. There is a three-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. It is equipped with AM radio, an under-seat heater, backup lamps, directional signals, chrome fender skirts, full chrome wheel covers, and a tissue dispenser. For 1951, just 3770 'State' Line convertibles were produced.

In 2011, this Commander State Convertible was offered for sale at the St. John auction presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $35,000 - $45,000 and was offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for $30,250, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2011