Vehicle Description
This 1951 Studebaker Commander Convertible is an absolutely
gorgeous post-war convertible and features Studebaker's iconic
"Bullet Nose" styling! Coming off the banner year in 1950,
Studebaker hit a bit of a sales slump during the 1951 model year.
In 1951, Studebaker produced two distinct series, the entry-level
Champion and the top-of-the-line Commander. Sitting atop the
Commander line was the Commander State Convertible, which was the
most expensive Studebaker that year. Perhaps the most notable
upgrade on the Commander models was its engine. That is, the 1951
Studebaker Commander models all came equipped with Studebaker's
brand new 232.6 cubic inch overhead valve V8 engine that was rated
to produce 120 horsepower. In fact, Studebaker's more economical 6
cylinder was not even offered on the premium Commander line. Many
believe that the shift from the economy flathead 6 to the OHV V8
was due in large part to Studebaker's sensing that America's
automakers were headed in the direction of overhead valve V8
engines and getting away from the flathead 6 cylinder setups from
the 30s and 40s. The 1951 Commander models also looked extremely
futuristic, both inside and out. Of course, the most iconic aspect
of the 1951 Studebaker design was the "Bullet Nose" grille that
served as an air intake for the engines that was clearly influenced
by the growing aviation industry of the post-war era. On the
insides, the '51 Commander sported "big, sweep-type aircraft dials"
in the instrument cluster, with Studebaker even touting this fact
in its marketing materials in 1951. While Studebaker largely
targeted a thriftier customer base, by offering the more premium
Commander series, the South Bend, Indiana based American
independent automaker was able to cover a larger array of
customers. In total, a mere 3,773 Commander State Convertibles were
produced in 1951, which makes this particular example a pretty rare
collector's piece that's ready to be driven or shown by its next
owner. Under the hood on this '51 Commander Convertible is a 232.6
cubic inch overhead valve V8 fed by a single 2 barrel carburetor
that together were said to have created 120 horsepower when new.
The OHV 233 V8 is backed by an optional automatic transmission,
ensuring that just about anybody can take this classy Studebaker
for a spin around the block! Exhaust exits this Studebaker's power
plant via a single exhaust port that generates a smooth sound out
the tailpipe. This 1951 Studebaker Bullet Nose Convertible rides on
a set of wide whitewall radial tires mounted on painted steel
wheels and accented with full chrome wheel covers that give this
Commander an upscale look and terrific ride. The tan Haartz Cloth
Stayfast power convertible top is brand new and it is raised and
lowered easily with the simple flick of a switch. An outside chrome
mirror mounted on the driver's side makes squeezing into a tight
parking spot much easier. The front chrome bumper is also outfitted
with a pair of chrome bumper guards that add a little extra 50s
flair to this gorgeous convertible. The body on this 1951
Studebaker has been refinished in beautiful Sahara Sand paint,
completing the exterior look of this Commander. The interior of
this 1951 Studebaker Commander Bullet Nose Convertible is gorgeous!
The front and rear bench have been reupholstered in beautiful
Amaretto simulated leather. The matching door panels and sun
visors, medium saddle carpeting, and steering wheel all to be in
wonderful condition as well and all retain a nice stock appearance.
The triple pot instrument cluster is equipped with a 100 MPH
speedometer, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, amp gauge, and
fuel gauge, as well as a clock. The dash is finished off with a
push-button "Starline" AM radio, chrome rear view mirror, ash tray,
and locking glovebox. Whether you're buying your very first classic
car or you're adding to your existing collection of post-war
classics, this 1951 Studebaker Commander "Bullet Nose" Convertible
would make an excellent choice. Give Ellingson's a call today at
763-428-7337!
*232.6 Cu. In. V8
*Single 2 Barrel Carburetor
*Optional Automatic Transmission
*120 Horsepower
*Wide Whitewall Radial Tires w/ Full Wheelcovers
*1 of 3,773 Commander Convertibles Produced
*Iconic "Bullet Nose" Studebaker Styling!
*Recent Repaint in Sahara Sand
*Tan Bench Seat Interior
*Brand New Tan Haartz Cloth Power Convertible Top
*Stock Instrumentation
*Odometer Reads: 11,924 Miles
