Details about our available 1942 Studebaker:
This special 1942 Studebaker Deluxe Champion Black Out Sedan for
sale was rescued and restored by longtime MVPA (Military Vehicle
Preservation Association) member, Larry Wells of Hebron, IN back in
2012. After learning its history, Mr. Wells, set out to perform a
period-correct presentation to educate others about the importance
of the Civil Defense Auxiliary, but also to remember the sheer will
and determination of the American population in a time when
everyone came together for the benefit of world freedom. Upon
completion, this Studebaker was proudly displayed at several MVPA
events, AACA shows, featured in many magazines, and even used on
MVPA convoys!
Finished in Medium Blue enamel over a Gray broadcloth interior,
this vintage Studebaker remains nicely optioned with headlight
visors, original Motorola radio (in-op), dual outside mirrors,
under hood accessory light, rear passenger courtesy lights and
glove box lamp, locking gas cap, spotlight, fog lamps, working
heat/defrost, and black sidewall Firestone tires. This classic is
powered by a 164.3ci Inline 6-cylinder engine offering 78
horsepower mated to a 3-speed transmission with overdrive, it was
claimed by Studebaker to achieve excellent fuel economy upwards of
27 mpg! Since this example was restored to be used and driven, it
has been fitted with an electric fuel pump, had a spare tire and
jack added (not found in original Black Outs), along with an under
dash auxiliary temp gauge.
This is a fantastic, highly recognized, Studebaker model that has
been featured in Military Vehicles Magazine, Olds Cars Weekly in
2018, Studebaker Driver's Club Magazine in 2015 & 2016, as well as
several issues of Army Motors Journal- MVPA. Included in the sale
is a host of original Civil Defense material, including several
manuals, guides, and equipment. Even a mannequin representing Mr.
Burke, dressed in a period-correct uniform right down to the shoes,
can ride along for display at shows! Each of these Civil Defense
Auxiliary cars would be outfitted with a fire extinguisher, first
aid kit, shovel, large flashlight, blankets, and other emergency
essentials. All of which were carefully sourced and added inside
the trunk. The attention to detail continues with the "V" for
victory patriotic stickers on the windows and headlight visors, a
gasoline ration sticker on the windshield, a 48-star American Flag,
and a 1942 Illinois license plate mounted on the back!
This eye-catching, car show-ready Studebaker has been thoroughly
vetted with new suspension components, brakes, and tires. It's
engine was resealed with new gaskets, water pump & fan pulley,
spark plugs, filters, rebuilt distributor, filters, and fluids in
March of 2020. Mr. Wells decided to sell this Studebaker to a
fellow MVPA member and WWII historian, Terry Johns, founder of the
WWII Historical Re-Enactment Society in February 2023. He went on
to use it on the Tracks Across Borders Scenic Byway Convoy covering
some 800 miles in the process! Very few of these cars exist and it
would make for a perfect museum display and educational piece for
wartime reunions! Detailed document photos are included in the
photos above. Contact Jon Faust at (314)993-1330 to schedule a test
drive.
History of Studebaker Vehicles:
Studebaker Automobile Company started in 1902 with electric
vehicles, then introduced gasoline-powered cars in 1904 in
conjunction with other automotive manufacturers like E-M-F and
Garford. Studebaker would produce its first fully manufactured
gasoline vehicle by 1912, and build its reputation for reliability,
durability, and quality over the next 50 years! The Champion was
introduced in 1939 and quickly became one of the best-selling
models. With the anticipation of the World War II effort to begin,
all automotive manufacturers ceased civilian production early into
1942 to focus production on military equipment and supplies.
Production of cars and trucks halted on February 10, 1942.
Approximately 300 vehicles built up to this period at Studebaker
were reserved by the US Government to be utilized only for the
Civil Defense Auxiliary and the New York Police Department. To
conserve material, the usually chromed components were instead
painted. These special vehicles were recorded with Studebaker as
Deluxe Champion Model 90 "Black Out" Coupes and Sedans. The great
"Black-Out" Studebaker, seen here, is one of those unique wartime
examples built January 27th, 1942, which has been restored with
great presentation detail as it had served Zone 7 of the Chicago
Civil Defense, with Deputy Coordinator, Ralph Burke, at the
helm!
Contact Jon Faust to schedule a test drive or to ask about
financing and trading options - (314) 993-1330 | (800) 957-5707 |
email
[email protected]
