1931 Studebaker President Series 80 Four Seasons Roadster

In 1928, Sunbaker introduced the new President, featuring a new high-output eight-cylinder engine. That same year, three Presidents circled the Atlantic City board track for 25,000 miles, averaging 68mph. The engine was upgraded in 1931 to nine main bearing construction, and a modified President won the Pike's Peak hillclimb.

In the early 1930s, Studebaker was still a force in the high-end car market, but was struggling with the acquisition of Pierce-Arrow, and was burdened with a diverse product line. Studebaker doubled down on its performance image, earning a host of records and competition accomplishments with their President. Studebaker held 114 records, 35 of which would still stand 35 years later. No other car of its era was as successful in motorsports competition.

This particular example was given a thorough no-expense-spared restoration completed recently. It was found in 1980 and would then pass through several antique Studebaker Club members' hands prior to the current owner's purchase in June 2003. Shortly thereafter, the restoration was begun. The work was completed in August 2005 and has not been shown at events since the work was completed.

This President is finished in a two-tone paint scheme of light and dark grey with a red leather interior. The convertible top is complete with a black tonneau cover and piped in matching red leather, which complements the red wire wheels. It has a host of accessories and options, including dual side-mounted spare tires with matching black covers and mirrors, white wall tires, rear-mounted color-matched metal trunk, oval Pilot Ray headlamps, dual horns, dual driving lights, whitewall tires, golf bag door, and accessory step plates.

There are just 54 1931 Studebaker President Four Seasons Roadsters registered in the Classic Car Club of America and Studebaker Club.

The engine in this President is a 337 cubic-inch nine main bearing side valve eight-cylinder unit offering 122 horsepower and fitted with a three-speed synchromesh transmission.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2017