For Sale: 1955 Studebaker President in Concord, North Carolina

This 1955 Studebaker President marks the return of the legendary top trim name to this company, but that's not what really matters here. Instead, the swoopy lines of this coupe are now backed up by small block power. It creates the perfect mix of beauty and brawn... and all for a great price.


As the name suggests, the President line was Studebaker's top trim. It elevated cars like this President coupe into the kind of premium price bracket. You could walk into a Chevy dealer in '55 with the same money, and drive out a top of the line V8 Bel Air coupe... and still have change in your pocket (more on this one's unique Chevy connection in a moment.) That kind of higher status is instantly seen in the styling. Famed designer Raymond Loewy really understood how to take his time and let the sheetmetal develop sophisticated lines. The long flowing hood and short rear deck instantly make this sporty, and the full sweeping trim and form-fitting bumpers make this truly elegant. The same style/speed dual personality can be seen in the choice of the red and black two-tone. It not only is a great color combo, but also the red highlights the custom hood scoop that hints at the extra power within.


Just like the exterior, the interior is unique and attractive. The exterior red returns, and now it's joined by a tasteful tan for a comfortable custom interior. The bucket seats are modern addition, so they have the kind of bolstering to be all-day comfortable. Plus, the custom center console in-between features the always-welcomed addition of cup holders. The stylish factory steering wheel is like a '50s work of art, and it's thin enough to get a commanding view of everything from the factory gauges to the upgraded AM/FM stereo. But as much as this interior has been upgraded for comfort, you'll also notice something else. The trio of Bosch auxiliary gauges and the B&M shifter are clear indications of the upgrade under the hood.


Studebaker's 259 cubic-inch V8 was potent enough for '55. But today there is something far more wicked in the engine bay, and everyone will know it from the moment you open the hood. The 350ci small block Chevy V8 has been dressed to impress with plenty of polished components, including the valve covers, air topper, alternator, exhaust manifolds, and pulleys. But more than just shine, this V8 has also been upgraded with an Edelbrock four-barrel carburetor, performance intake, and an aluminum radiator. So this upgrade gives you the best of both worlds - more power than the Studebaker unit and better parts availability. The enhanced V8 enhances the driving experience out on the road to give you plenty of cruising power and just a hint of muscle car prowess from the newer dual exhaust. Plus, the automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, and modern tires behind the cool Studebaker wire wheel covers all make for a classic you can really enjoy.


This President coupe is unique in any crowd, and at this affordable price, we know it's the most interesting and complete cruiser for the money. So if you're looking to make a bold statement on a budget, call today!