1948 Commander Two Door - 39K Actual Miles

1948 Commander - Two Door Sedan
First By Far With a Postwar Car!


Just after automobile production resumed following WWII, Studebaker was first in releasing an all new, modern-styled car for the 1947 model year. Seven decades later, these "is it coming or going?" Studebakers are getting fewer and farther between.

Up for auction we have this '48 Commander two door with the first-year 245 Six and overdrive, with less than 39K miles on the odometer.

While we can't speak for the car's history beyond the last 20 years, it's apparent that the Commander has always been garaged and well taken care of.

The car was purchased by a well-known Studebaker collector here in Gainesville, Florida, about 15 (or more) years ago. With a few dozen Studebakers to drive around, some of them, such as this '48, never saw a lot of use under his ownership. While his family has maintained the car collection since his passing a decade ago, it's now time to thin the herd and find some of the cars a new, loving home.
The '48 was purchased from a fellow Studebaker collector in Kansas, though history prior to that is completely unknown.

In our opinion, the majority of the exterior of the car has been repainted, though there are small areas that may be the original factory applied enamel. Whatever paint work was done, was performed a long time ago.

It's not a "show car", and we don't want to represent it as such. The paint is old, but has held up well. It has the usual chips, scratches, touchups, and imperfections that one would expect on an old enamel paint job, but it fits the character of the car perfectly.


The chrome is all in above-average condition. The bumpers have some very light blistering/peppering. The rest of the brightwork is excellent with no pitting, cracks, etc.








There's no evidence of any significant body work. We've been all over and under this car and we can't find any rust problems. None!



It really is a good, honest old Studebaker.


The tires were replaced earlier this month. Brand new 215R75/15 Cooper radials on the original steel wheels.


The interior has been reupholstered. While it wasn't done in the factory-correct materials, it is very nice and tasteful. Much like the rest of the car, it's very understated, yet well done.







All evidence points to the mileage reading on the odometer to be correct and actual. Overall the car is smooth and quiet. There aren't any rattles or clanks. The doors latch with a solid "click".







As stated previously, we really can't find any rust problems.




Mechanically, the car doesn't need much. The 246" Six runs great. The engine is smooth, responsive, and strong running with good oil pressure.The car isa solid, well built, typical-of-the-1940's cruiser. If La-Z-Boy built a recliner with a 3 speed Overdrive transmission, this would be it.




Within the last month, the car underwent a "refreshing" to get it ready for its new owner. Along with the new tires, the brake system was also overhauled. Brand new wheel cylinders all around, new master cylinder, and an NOS Hill Holder valve were installed. We were prepared to replace brake drums and shoes, but everything was in such nice condition that there was no need to.
We have made no effort whatsoever to hide anything on the car's bottomside. The chassis is greasy, dirty, and generally what one would expect on an unrestored 70 year old car. And, yes, it will drip oil onto your garage floor.


A few years ago we had the fuel tank cleaned and lined.




The rear axle ratio is 4.55, which is a nice setup with the Overdrive.





Once again... No rust! Flaky undercoat, yes. But it's solid.









Please feel free to inquire if you're interested in the car. We'll be happy to answer any and all questions as accurately and promptly as we can.
The car is being sold as is, where is, with no warranty implied. The car has a current registration and is being sold with a clear Florida title. Shipping/transport is complete responsibilityof the buyer. Car MUST be picked up from our location within 30 days time.

On Mar-29-19 at 07:12:15 PDT, seller added the following information:

NOTE: I made a mistake, 1948 Commanders used the 226" Six engine. The 245" didn't debut until the 1949 model year. This car has the 226".