Everybody has their likes and dislikes when it comes to particular features on classic cars, and what one enthusiast considers great styling might not be appreciated by the next person that comes along. This 1949 Studebaker Starlight coupe is a perfect example, as the present owner didn’t dig the shape of the front section as it came from the factory, so he subsequently replaced it with a bullet nose from a later Stude. The seller is upfront in stating that many won’t like this car if they’re a Studebaker perfectionist, or a purist, but it seems like a decent project for those with a unique vision. Priced at just $2,250, this one is located near Bremerton, Washington, and can be seen here on Craigslist. Our thanks go out to reader Curvette for finding this unusual Studebaker and sending in the tip!
The rear section has been modified as well, with the seller reporting that the original panels were replaced with pieces from a ’51 Studebaker. Thankfully, the lines flow better here than with some custom fabrications, and it’s a real plus that the owner confirms that this one is no rusty beater. The only corrosion mentioned is a section on the left rocker, so unless the buyer decides to revert everything outside back to stock, there shouldn’t be a tremendous amount of effort required before this one is ready to be repainted.
Unfortunately there’s no photo provided from the engine bay or any shots with the hood raised. Although the crank is reported to have turned as recently as last fall, it’s said to be stuck now, so some major mechanical work is going to be required here before this one’s ready to drive again. We do get to take a peek inside the trunk, and while some parts are blocking total visibility, the areas we do get to see appear reasonably solid. There is also a picture that shows several other components that will be included, so perhaps a few of these will be of some value in the future.
We just get this one glimpse of the interior, but the dash and instruments appear to be in good shape cosmetically, though it’s unknown whether they will still function after all these decades sitting. The floors are showing what’s hopefully just surface rust, and fingers crossed that there will be no structural issues found down below. This one’s going to need a few things, but I’m feeling that $2,250 might be a fair price to pay for this modified 1949 Studebaker Starlight. What do you think?
How can you go wrong with that price. You can go with any kind of build you like.