Vehicle Description
In the late 1920s, the president of Studebaker, Albert Erskine
wished to develop a new 8-cylinder flagship model that would not
simply raise the marque's standing in the market, but be nothing
short of the finest automobile available on American roads. While
the six-cylinder President model had been available since 1926,
Erskine believed a prestigious 8-cylinder car would drive showroom
traffic and give Studebaker a tool to use in motorsports
competition. He charged his engineering team with the task of
developing a new straight eight capable of standing with the best
in the industry. Curiously, his chief engineer refused, insisting
the current inline-six was more than sufficient for a
top-of-the-line model. Understandably annoyed, Erskine promptly
sacked his engineer and promoted Barney Roos, who relished in his
new responsibilities. Roos designed a gem of an engine; a 313 cubic
inch, 5-main bearing, L-head straight eight with gear driven cam
and an impressive 100 horsepower output. The engine debuted in 1928
for the newly revamped President line. While smaller than the
outgoing six, the new eight was notably smoother with superior
refinement. For 1929, displacement increased to 337 cubic inches
and power increased to 115 horsepower. Erskine strongly encouraged
Studebaker's involvement in motorsport, and with the new 8-cylinder
President in the hands of the deeply talented Ab Jenkins, a number
of speed records, endurance records and racing successes would
follow; with some records holding for a full 35 years! Top results
at the Indianapolis 500 and Pikes Peak Hillclimb would further
cement the President's reputation for performance and reliability.
1931 marked the arrival of the finest all the 8-cylinder
Studebakers. Roos' engine was further refined with and an
industry-leading nine main-bearing crank, improved lubrication
(including a replaceable oil filter), a crankshaft vibration
damper, and improved breathing, with output raised to 122
horsepower. On track success continued, with a Studebaker-powered
special taking a surprise pole-position at the 1931 Indianapolis
500. 1931 also saw the addition of the unmistakable "Ovaloid"
headlamps which distinguished the President on the road, and with
its V-shaped grille and heavily raked windscreen, and 130"
wheelbase, the Studebaker President is no doubt a very special and
imposing car. The President line would only be available through
1933, as Studebaker was plunged into a financial crisis, ultimately
leading to the company going into receivership and Albert Erskine
taking his own life. But his legacy lives on as the 1928-1933
President is the only Studebaker to achieve the coveted recognition
as a CCCA Full Classic and remains one of the most prized models in
the marque's long history. This 1931 President 80-R Four-Seasons
Roadster is a superb example of this rare, important and desirable
Classic Era Studebaker. Wearing a very high-quality older
restoration, this handsome roadster has received excellent care in
the years since. Most recently, the car was treated to a cosmetic
freshening that included a retrimmed interior, new Haartz Stayfast
top in black, restored and detailed engine bay, and a new radiator.
Since then, the car has been extremely well-preserved in excellent
condition. The paint scheme is quite lovely, with the dove gray
body accented with navy blue feature lines, fenders,�and wire
wheels. Paint quality remains excellent thanks to light and careful
use through the years. Body and panel fit is exemplary, in keeping
with the quality of the restoration. Chrome fittings and
accessories are all presented in very fine order. The distinctive
V-shaped bumpers are excellent, as are the signature "Ovaloid"
headlamps. Other accessories include dual trumpet horns, intricate
radiator stone guard, a very rare and beautiful goddess mascot,
fender-mounted marker lamps, and pedestal mirrors on the dual
side-mount spare wheels. In the rear, the body features a golf-bag
door, rumble seat, luggage rack and step pads for rear passengers.
The car rides on blue-painted wire wheels with chrome trim rings,
chrome center caps and whitewall tires giving it a delightfully
sporting look. The light gray leather trim remains in outstanding
condition, remaining supple and attractive and appearing to have
seen very little use since being restored. Door panels, carpets,
and soft trim are similarly in excellent order. The dash, which is
finished in navy blue, features a plaque that proudly proclaims
"Body Built by Studebaker" and another that simply declares it "The
President". Instruments are beautifully restored and mounted in a
centrally mounted chrome panel as original. Beneath the hood lay
Studebaker's masterpiece; the nine main bearing, 337 cubic inch,
inline eight, serial number P 9230. It is beautifully presented and
very well detailed with excellent paint quality, correct fittings
and tidy wiring and plumbing. The original oil filter housing
remains in place, properly finished with a decal instructing users
to replace every 12,000 miles. The engine runs beautifully,
delivering its ample power with signature smoothness and finesse,
making this President an outstanding driver's car. This example's
CCCA Premier award-winning restoration remains in beautiful
condition, ideally suited for CCCA CARavan touring, or for proud
display in shows and concours. This President Four Seasons Roadster
is a beautiful example of the high water mark for Studebaker in the
Classic Era. The President remains one of the most important and
desirable models in Studebaker history, and with just 54 President
Four Seasons Roadsters known in Classic Car Club of America and
Studebaker Club ranks, it is likely to be the only one at virtually
any event.
