1953 Studebaker Champion Regal Starliner Restomod

Description

The stunning styling of the Studebaker Champion Regal Starliner Restomod (try saying that 5 times fast) has always needed a bit more horsepower than the original engines could provide. Sure, they tried supercharging a few years later, but this 1953 Studebaker hardtop coupe now features a stout small block Chevy V8 and all the modern conveniences, without losing its stunning good looks. That's a win-win if you ask us!

The Starliner hardtop coupes must have been something when they hit the streets in the early 1950s. Where everything else was conservative and staid, the Stude was sleek, low, and beautifully proportioned. It wasn't a sports car, of course, but an early grand touring coupe, making it perfect for a makeover. This one shows excellent bodywork wrapped in a lovely electric blue paint job that's both flashy and sophisticated, perfect for the Stude's slinky shape. Fit and finish are good all around, and despite a few signs of use and age, it still cuts a dashing profile and draws attention wherever it goes. Chrome and stainless trim is a big part of any '50s car's appeal, and this Studebaker is no exception, offering lots of the bright stuff to really make the details stand out. The grille was similar to other Studebaker products, domed hood and peaked fenders make for an awesome view from behind the wheel and there are vestigial tailfins out back, all trimmed in chrome. The sweep panel on the flanks adds some drama and that hardtop profile with the wrap-around rear window makes this car stand out everywhere it goes.

The handsome interior has been thoroughly updated, giving it a clean, modern look without losing the spirit of the original design. Leather bucket seats from a Pontiac GTP flank a custom center console, and the original dash has been extensively reworked. A tilt column with a beautiful leather-trimmed steering wheel is elegant and comfortable and the original gauges are replaced with white-faced Dolphin dials. Amenities like power windows, seats, and locks, a tilt/telescope steering column, and a great-sounding AM/FM/CD stereo are all part of the package. Everything inside the car is nicely finished and showing only minimal wear, so it's sure to get its share of complements at shows. The rear seat appears to be original and is strictly for two passengers, and the beautifully finished trunk is definitely big enough for all your gear on a road trip.

A reliable 350 cubic inch Chevrolet V8 replaces the original lump, and it likely makes roughly three times the horsepower as the factory mill. It's a clean installation, with much of the wiring tucked neatly out of sight and a lot of color-matched components. There are also some polished aluminum details and upgrades like power front disc brakes make it feel quite contemporary on the road. Obviously the firewall and inner fenders have been smoothed and there's a big aluminum radiator up front. A TH350 3-speed automatic transmission feeds what appears to be a Ford 9-inch rear end that hangs on original leaf springs. A rumbling dual exhaust gives the clean coupe just the right sound and it sits easily on those polished KMC "Hot Wheels" aluminum wheels with staggered 225/50/16 front and 265/60/16 rear BFG radials.

Studebakers aren't for everyone, but it's easy to fall for a car that looks this good and runs this well. Maybe go off the beaten track for a while and see what Studebaker's best effort can do. Call today!