1931 Studebaker President Series 80 State Coupe

Studebaker, located in South Bend, Indiana, was one of America's oldest automobile manufacturers. Prior to building automobiles, the company built wagons, beginning in 1872.

The 80/90 President series was the company's top-of-the-line. Cars were available in two wheelbase - 130 and 136 inches. Both were powered by a 337 cubic-inch, 122-horsepower, in-line Studebaker straight eight engine. In November 1931, a stock Studebaker President 80 set numerous stock car speed records at Murdoc dry lake in California.

The President was the premier automobile model manufactured by the Studebaker Corporation of South Bend, Indiana, from 1926-1942. The nameplate was reintroduced in 1955 and used until the end of the 1958 model year, when the name was retired.


The 1931 Studebaker President engine saw an increase in displacement to 337 cubic inches and a switch to 9 main bearings, as used in their race cars. Other advances for performance included valves that had spring dampers and the straight-through muffler. With these improvements, the engine produces 122 horsepower. It also has modern filters for air, oil, and fuel, an improved thermostat, and a Lanchester vibration damper.

In 1931, Studebaker also introduced 'Ovaloid' headlights, which were oblong in shape and made identification of the President and other 'senior' Studebaker models easier. Wire spoke wheels were standard, but this President features hickory wood artillery wheels. This gave the original owner a credit of $200 on the $2,075 list price. This is the only 1931 President known to have these wheels.

This Studebaker was sold new in Cleveland, Ohio, then stored for many years in Tiffin, Ohio, Studebaker dealership. It has been restored as needed, chiefly with new paint and upholstery. Note the rare accessory wood artillery-style wheels. Also of note is the 'La Gioconda' mascot. 'La Gioconda' translates to Mona Lisa.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2018