Even though Studebaker had its beginnings in the horse drawn carriage business, supplying customers with carriages to haul their belongings, Studebaker was very slow entering the motorized half ton pickup market. In 1938, they introduced their CE model, based on its passenger car platform, which proved to be successful, but at the same time was more expensive at $850 dollars as compared to the trucks offered by the big three (Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge) at the time. In 1941, Studebaker introduced its M5 model, based on the popular Champion platform. Much more of a truck than the previous CE, the M5 was geared more for efficiency and sales. The front and rear fenders were interchangeable, the dash was from the Champion cars, the running boards were interchangeable from side to side etc..keeping the production cost at an all time low enabling Studebaker to actually compete with Ford, Chevy and Dodge. The M5's styling with its tall shape, swept back Vee windshield, trim dimensions, simple ornamentation and nicely rounded fenders is particularly attractive and certainly stands out amongst the more commonly seen Fords and Chevys.
The 1946 M5 pickup offered here is a wonderfully restored example just out of a 40 year ownership where it has been well kept and more recently restored. The cab and bed are in perfect condition showing no signs of ever being in disrepair. The upholstery has been redone to a very high and correct standard. Mechanically the L-head six cylinder flathead engine runs very well and the three speed transmission shifts as it should. Finished in its original colors of beige with a brown interior and red wheels, this M5 is really sharp and certainly will stand out at a show or on the road. Contact us today for more information.
