If a “cheap and cheerful” project candidate is on your radar, this 1955 Studebaker Champion Coupe could be a strong contender. The seller states that it needs a refresh, but the listing images suggest that the required work won’t include rust repairs. It doesn’t currently run, but with its presentation seemingly acceptable for a survivor-grade vehicle, mechanical revival might be the only thing standing between this Studebaker and life on the open road. The seller has listed the Coupe here on eBay in Upper Black Eddy, Pennsylvania. Bidding sits at a mere $2,025 in a No Reserve auction.
Studebaker released its Fourth Generation Champion range in 1953. Penned by Robert Bourke under the direction of Raymond Loewy, the latest model featured significantly more modern styling than its predecessor. This Coupe rolled off the line in 1955, looking striking in Cascade Green and Shasta White. The seller is sparing in their description, leaving us to rely on the images to assess the car’s potential. The paint has a few visible flaws, but its healthy shine and the straight panels make a positive first impression. There is no carpet, allowing a clear view of the floors. I can spot some spots of mild surface corrosion, but no evidence of penetrating rust. Therefore, it appears that this classic might be rock-solid. The trim generally looks acceptable for a survivor-grade classic, and the glass is clear.
Powering this Champion is Studebaker’s 185ci flathead “Victory Six.” In its prime, it sent 101hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission. The power figure marked a 16% increase compared to the previous year’s output, making the Champion a relatively lively performer. The seller’s description runs to a dizzying eighteen words. Of these, twelve emphasize the fact that the car doesn’t currently run, but it did when parked. It is unclear how long ago that was, but the robust nature of these motors means that revival may not be difficult or expensive.
The seller supplies two interior shots, and neither is great. However, they reveal that this car is missing its carpet and radio. Otherwise, the cloth-and-vinyl trim appears to be in reasonable condition, with no evidence of rips or tears. The dash fascia looks respectable, and the pad isn’t warped or cracked. It probably won’t win much show silverware, but the overall condition appears to be acceptable for a driver-grade classic.
In-person inspections invariably unearth faults and flaws that aren’t visible in listing images, and I suspect that this 1955 Studebaker Champion Coupe will be no exception. However, the lack of obvious penetrating rust is promising, suggesting that its appearance might be acceptable to enthusiasts seeking a survivor-grade classic. It has only attracted two bids, but the Watch List tally is extremely healthy. That could indicate that the action will intensify, although if it doesn’t, this Champion could remain very affordable. Are those thoughts enough to tempt you to monitor this listing? I will understand if you do.
Perfect styling. Distinctive, attractive and you know what it is. Unless something went “tinkle tinkle” when it was last shut off, that engine should be easy to repair. There’s a Studebaker like this one, only it’s a drag car, about 20 miles from here complete with a 500ci supercharged Merlin mill. It’s purple, and its name is “UR Toast”.
What a great looking car. Ironically, this is located in Upper Black Eddy, PA where I once lived and where I bought a 1949 Studebaker pickup from a neighbor.
Turned out to be a good running truck that my buddies and I used in our painting business. Maybe this is a sign?!
Nicks was a big junk yard that I used maybe 40 years ago there in Upper Bucks County. There still is a Nicks in Lower Bucks. Lots of old cars around there. This one looks pretty good, even with that “catfish” mouth.
Beautiful car. I’ve always loved the 1955 Studebaker. It’s my favourite year until the 1959-61 Lark. I hope whoever buys this car enjoys it and takes care of it.
quite different than the other Studie. Some one has done some wrk the nxt buyer will have to pay for. Yeah, agreed “18 wrds” is not much & ‘pic Never tell the full tail’.
If going for a Studebaker (I think the demographic is gone, its onto the 1980s now) I’d pick this’un over the white today. Some do and call me to get running. Its a job I love. Go on site? Tow out from between trees w/a truck fulla tools’n parts? Hear it fire up after decades sit (w/o breaking any internal prt?) Pretty satisfying. May B even geta restore or other job out of it.
Yup – looks like a nice, straight example. Some folks like the higher trim levels with the “butter knife” side trim – others prefer this lowest-level trim.
Nit-picking: looks like there has been an attempt to keep it original, ie plain upholstery, original lowest-trim steering wheel without horn rim. Can’t see any accessories other than the full wheel covers – can’t even tell if it has a heater. Would be nice to know why it isn’t running and if it has overdrive. Got to wonder why the radio antenna is in the wrong place – and why it has a ’56-’61 dash panel instead of the unique-to-55 job.
I do see what looks like stubs of the heater core (or heater control valve?) sticking out of the firewall and a capped off heater hose, but these had heater cores under the passenger front seat, so I’m not sure what I’m seeing. I don’t see an overdrive relay on the firewall either, so I’d assume no OD. I do like the “less is more” styling of the C3 body, and I agree the body seems super solid. Would make a great weekend cruiser with a little mechanical work.
I’d buy a 1955 Studebaker if I had someone to share the experience with who’s also into such cars. I’ve always preferred old cars over today’s cars. I used to know someone who had a 1959 Studebaker Lark.