Vehicle Description
1941 Studebaker Commander Sedan
A car company started by a band of German brothers, was known from
the very beginning, and throughout its history, for innovative
design, and use of technology. In fact the first "horseless
carriage" produced by the Studebaker Brothers, was electric.
Throughout the history of the company, management fought to compete
with the big three, but proved to be a very difficult, uphill
battle, due to sheer volume differences.
This Loewy designed "slipstream" automobile is all about looking
like its moving when standing still, gas saving and clean lines,
peppered with Art Deco styling. In restored condition, certain
liberties were taken pertaining to the interior, and are definitely
upgrades from the original. A very nice example of a 1941 post
market crash, fair priced automobile, that would see Studebaker's
largest output since the early 1920's
Exterior
Overall black with chrome bordered "belt trim" filled in with red
goes along each side, sand adds to the concept of motion while
standing still. Two die-cast grilles with vertical vanes sit low in
the front fenders, and a large double-bar bumper gave ample
protection from minor collisions. A chrome-plated ornament with a
wispy "S" on an oxblood-red field graces the leading edge of the
hood. Another die-cast ornament measuring 19 inches long is
centered on the decklid. The stylized taillights present long and
narrow and they are fitted in the body rather than in the fenders,
as in previous years. This arrangement has the advantage of
providing for a lighted luggage compartment.
Interior
The interior features a two-tone deluxe steering wheel, leather
panels around the front-door window controls, a two-tone instrument
panel, bolster-type pleated upholstery, and carpets front and rear.
Rich broadcloth upholstery in blue-gray is seen throughout the
passenger compartment. Art Deco styling is very present here in
particular within the dash area with the instrumentation. Front and
rear door thresholds have been replaced with machined swirl pattern
aluminum strips, which add a beautiful accent to the interior.
Drivetrain
This Commander is powered by a six-cylinder L-head engine, which
traced its heritage back to the 1932 Rockne 65. In 1941,
displacement was up to 226 cubic inches and horsepower to 94. This
power plant was one of the most efficient engines then being
produced, winning its class each year from 1936 through 1941 in the
Gil�more economy run. The car's suspension features a single
48-inch-long transverse leaf spring 2.5 inches wide, packed in
grease, and wrapped. The spring was securely bolted to the center
of the front cross member and at each end to the lower kingpin
yokes. Houdaille lever-type shocks were used front and rear. An
added rear sway bar helps in the handling department. Another
mechanical "first" for Studebaker was the automatic hill holder,
which was standard equipment on Commanders. This unique device
permitted the driver to park on an incline and remove his foot from
the brake without concern for roll-back when the clutch was
engaged. This wonderful driving Studebaker has overdrive, which
allows it to maintain turnpike speeds! The radial tires also help
make it more drivable.
If you are looking for an iconic Studebaker, this car deserves some
of your time. A good restoration on a beautifully styled automobile
from the early 1940's. Instantly starts up and has a smooth-running
engine, wonderful ride, and fuel efficient, a very nice example
indeed is offered. Take this car to the drive in, and catch Citizen
Kane, or just give a listen to Chattanooga Choo Choo on the
radio.
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special
interest automobile showroom, featuring over 100 vehicles for sale
with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. A 450 barn find
collection is currently on display.
This vehicle is in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania,
conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76
Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and
our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for
more information or to come see the vehicle in person.
