1951 Studebaker Commander

This 1951 Studebaker Commander Convertible is a beautifully restored Bullet Nose convertible with long-term enthusiast ownership. Riding the momentum of its strong 1950 performance, Studebaker entered 1951 facing a more challenging sales climate. Even so, the South Bend-based independent automaker delivered one of the most distinctive and forward-thinking lineups of the early 1950s. For the 1951 model year, Studebaker offered two primary series: the budget-friendly Champion and the upscale Commander. At the pinnacle of the range sat the Commander State Convertible- the most luxurious and highest-priced Studebaker available in 1951. The biggest advancement for the 1951 Commander models was found under the hood. Each Commander came standard with Studebaker's all-new 232.6 cubic inch overhead valve V8 engine, rated at 120 horsepower. Notably, the economical flathead six-cylinder was not even offered in the premium Commander line. The move to a modern OHV V8 reflected Studebaker's keen awareness of industry trends, as American manufacturers began transitioning away from pre-war flathead sixes and toward more powerful, efficient V8 powerplants that would define the decade. Beyond its mechanical upgrades, the 1951 Commander was strikingly futuristic in both styling and presentation. Its most unforgettable design feature was the dramatic Bullet Nose grille-an aviation-inspired front-end treatment that doubled as an engine air intake and echoed America's fascination with post-war aircraft design. Inside, the cockpit continued the theme with sweeping, aircraft-style instrumentation. Studebaker proudly advertised the big, sweep-type aircraft dials in its 1951 marketing, reinforcing the car's modern, jet-age persona. While Studebaker traditionally catered to value-conscious buyers, the premium Commander series allowed the company to broaden its appeal to customers seeking performance, style, and exclusivity. Production numbers underscore that exclusivity: only 3,773 Commander State Convertibles were built for 1951. Today, that limited production makes the 1951 Studebaker Commander Bullet Nose Convertible a highly desirable and rare collector car-equally at home on the show field or out on the open road in the hands of its next proud owner. This particular example comes to us from a wonderful collector who cared for the car for nearly 15 years, having purchased it from its prior owner of nearly 20 years. Powering this '51 Bullet Nose Studebaker is a 232.6 Cubic Inch Overhead Valve V8 topped with a single 2 barrel carburetor that together were said to have produced 120 horsepower when new. The OHV 232.6 V8 is mated to a 3 speed manual transmission with Overdrive that is shifted using the Three-On-The-Tree shifter for improved highway efficiency. Exhaust exits this Studebaker's 120HP powerplant via a stock set of exhaust manifolds ultimately exiting out the rear of the car via single exhaust pipe that produces a terrific sound. While Studebakers were notably sparse with features due to them being known as thrifty vehicles, this particular Commander Convertible comes outfitted with wonderful options. Around the exterior, this Commander is equipped with dressed-up trim options including Stratoline fender ornaments, front and rear bumperettes, and a No-Mar gasoline door guard. Riding on a set of wide whitewall tires paired with full chrome wheel covers emblazoned with the Studebaker Crest, this 1951 Studebaker has a truly regal look whether you're parked at the car show or cruising down the road! But the options on Bullet Nose is not limited only to the exterior; rather, the powertrain sports several wonderful upgrades including an optional Fram Oil Filter and the novel Automatic Hill Holder feature optioned on the braking system. The black cloth convertible top is in wonderful condition and features a glass rear window with chrome surrounds. The body of this '51 Bullet Nose has been refinished in beautiful Sahara Sand paint that