1924 Studebaker Light Six Demi-Coupe

Studebaker was a long-established builder of vehicles when the automobile industry was in its infancy, widely known for the Conestoga wagons that became iconic elements in America's westward expansion. Self-propelled vehicles became part of the company's enterprises a half-century later, when Studebaker began building electric cars. Although Studebaker also produced gasoline-powered cars during its early years, electrics continued to be a corporate staple through 1912. But the 1913 model year marked a major transition, as Studebaker consolidated its operations in-house, becoming a manufacturer of complete cars.

That same year marked the introduction of Studebaker's Big Six engine, one of the earliest monoblock castings on the market. The 286 cubic-inch Light Six followed in 1914, and by 1920 four-cylinder engines had disappeared from the Studebaker lineup. Model designations were based on the three engine options - Light Six, Special Six, and Big Six - with output ratings of 40, 50, and 60 horsepower, respectively.

The 1924 model year was the last for the Light Six engine, which was discontinued in favor of the more powerful versions. Studebaker spiffed up its styling for 1924 with a nickel-plated radiator shell, while pneumatic tires and bumpers became standard features. However, model years weren't always the distinction they are today, and the design of this Light Six actually made its debut in December of 1922 as an all-new model. Production continued until July 1924, when Studebaker changed its tooling for 1925 production.

Here is a truly unique automobile. This Studebaker Light Six was sold new in China and featured a body built by Studebaker's Chinese sales representative, the Shanghai Horse Bazaar Company, which had been founded in 1851 to sell horse-drawn vehicles.

The company's capabilities made a lasting impression on Studebaker's plant manager, Coy Goodrich, who, after returning to the U.S., ordered a custom-body shipped to San Francisco for his new 1924 Studebaker Light Six chassis.

The aluminum body was trimmed with teak and painted blue with blue mohair upholstery. The 'CCG' radiator badge stands for Coy C. Goodrich, the vehicle's original owner.

The car remained in the Goodrich family for 80 years until 2004, when Mr. Goodrich's son donated the now-restored automobile to the Studebaker National Museum.