1942 Studebaker Champion Custom-Line Club Sedan

With the United States' declaration of war in December of 1941, manufacturers began retooling for defense production. Beginning January 1, 1942, certain raw materials such as aluminum and chromium, were restricted to military applications. Manufacturers substituted painted trim for chrome and used other non-critical metals in place of aluminum. Studebaker called these models 'Series 90' in honor of its 90th anniversary and was nicknamed 'blackout' models for their lack of brightwork.

This particular example was built on January 29, 1942. No new automobiles were built after January 31, 1942, as the industry converted entirely to war production.

The 1942 Studebaker Champion was wider and featured several body style changes. In the front were bumpers that had a built-in license plate assembly. The grille reached completely across the front of the cars. Cross-hatching horizontal and vertical bars were located on either side of a vertical center member.

The engine was a 170 cubic-inch six-cylinder, L-head unit which offered 90 horsepower and 134 ft-lbs of torque. It had a Warner Gear synchromesh three-speed transmission and rode on Budd steel disc wheels. Standard equipment on the 'Custom' trim line included a horn, one sun visor, thermometer, gas gauge, speedometer, ignition lock, wiper, spring covers, dual taillamps, and double-acting shock absorbers. The 'Deluxestyle' trim level had dual wipers, dual sun visors, dual Airtone horns, two courtesy lights, a front seat back garnish trim panel and ashtray, and front door armrests. Other features included chrome sill moldings with solid interior and exterior colors and trim.