1952 Studebaker 2R5

Sold for $24,750 at 2012 RM-Automobiles of Arizona.
Studebaker built full-scale clay mockups of their truck designs as early as 1945, well in advance of their 1948 introduction for the 1949-model year. The designs were smooth, modern, and fresh. They were the first vehicles of their kind with a tough double-walled cargo bed and lacked the old-fashion running boards and cargo bed steps.

The 169.6 cubic-inch 'flathead' six-cylinder engine produced the most horsepower per cubic inch of any American light truck engine of the period. The L-head 'Champion' engine offered 85 horsepower for 1952.

This example, a late production 1/2-Ton Pickup Truck, has a three-speed manual transmission with centrifugal overdrive. It has been given a body-off restoration prior to the acquisition by the current owner. The exterior is finished with the factory-correct shade of Turquoise with red interior upholstery. Features include the optional centrifugal overdrive and an interior light.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2012