1931 Studebaker President Series 80 Four Seasons Roadster

1928 was a monumental year for Studebaker as it was the year of the company's first eight-cylinder engine, available in the President model. The engine featured a side-valve design with five main bearings and a 4.7 to 1 compression ratio. Horsepower was rated at 100, which was ten more than Cadillac's larger V8. The platform for the mighty President models grew again in 1931, with wheelbases of 130 and 136 inches. The 337 cubic-inch engine was now rated at 122 horsepower, and free-wheeling was standard on the three-speed transmission. With a nine-main bearing engine, a Lanchester vibration dampener, and free-wheeling, the company boasted 'unprecedented quietness at every speed.'

This 1931 Studebaker President Eight Four-Seasons Roadster was purchased from the Harrah collection in 1986 by the Nethercutt collection. Prior owners include Bob Foust of California. This restored vehicle wears its authentic color combination of Absinthe Green over Coach green, with cream wheels. There is a convertible top and roll-up side windows. The rumble seat will carry luggage for two, easily accessible through the right-side golf bag door.


In 2011, this vehicle was offered for sale at the Hershey Auction presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $60,000 - $80,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the vehicle had been sold for $66,000, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2011