Studebaker Automobile Company started in 1902 with electric vehicles, then introduced gasoline powered vehicles by 1904 in conjunction with other automotive manufacturers like E-M-F and Garford. Studebaker would produce its first fully manufactured gasoline vehicle by 1912, and build its own reputation for reliability, durability, and quality over the next 50 years! The Champion was introduced in 1939 and quickly become one of the best-selling models. With the anticipation of the World War II effort to begin, all automotive manufacturers ceased civilian production early into 1942 to focus production on military equipment and supplies. Production of cars and trucks halted on February 10, 1942.
Approximately 300 vehicles built up to this period at Studebaker were reserved by the US Government to be utilized only for the Civil Defense Auxiliary and the New York Police Department. To conserve material, the usually chromed components were instead painted. These special vehicles were recorded with Studebaker as Deluxe Champion Model 90 "Black Out" Coupes and Sedans. This car is one of those unique wartime examples built January 27th, 1942, which has been restored with great presentation detail as it had served Zone 7 of the Chicago Civil Defense, with Deputy Coordinator, Ralph Burke, at the helm!
This special 1942 Studebaker Deluxe Champion Black Out Sedan was rescued and restored by longtime MVPA (Military Vehicle Preservation Association) member, Larry Wells of Hebron, IN back in 2012. After learning its history, Mr. Wells, set out to perform a period correct presentation to educate others about the importance of the Civil Defense Auxiliary, but also to remember the sheer will and determination of the American population in a time when everyone came together for the benefit of world freedom. Upon completion, this Studebaker was proudly displayed at several MVPA events, AACA shows, featured in many magazines, and even used on MVPA convoys!
Finished in Medium Blue enamel over Gray broadcloth interior, it remains nicely optioned with headlight visors, original Motorola radio (in-op), dual outside mirrors, under hood accessory light, rear passenger courtesy lights and glove box lamp, locking gas cap, spotlight (in-op), fog lamps, heat/defrost, and black sidewall Firestone tires. Powered by a 164.3ci Inline 6-cylinder engine offering 78 horsepower mated to a 3-speed transmission with overdrive, it was claimed by Studebaker to achieve excellent fuel economy upwards of 27 mpg! Since this example was restored with purpose of being used and driven, it has been fitted with an electric fuel pump, had a spare tire and jack added (not found in original Black Outs), along with an under dash auxiliary temp gauge.
It has been featured in Military Vehicles Magazine and Olds Cars Weekly in 2018, Studebaker Driver's Club Magazine in 2015 & 2016, as well as several issues of Army Motors Journal- MVPA. It comes with a host of original Civil Defense material, including several manuals, guides, and equipment. Even a mannequin representing Mr. Burke, dressed in a period-correct uniform right down to the shoes, can ride along for display at shows! Each of these Civil Defense Auxiliary cars would be outfitted with a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, shovel, large flashlight, blankets, and other emergency essentials. All of which were carefully sourced and added inside the trunk. The attention to detail continues with the "V" for victory patriotic stickers on the windows and headlight visors, gasoline ration sticker on the windshield, a 48-star American Flag, and a 1942 Illinois license plate mounted on the back!
This car has been thoroughly vetted with new suspension components, brakes, and tires. The engine was resealed with new gaskets, water pump & fan pulley, spark plugs, filters, rebuilt distributor, filters, and fluids in March of 2020. Mr. Wells decided to sell this Studebaker to a fellow MVPA member and WWII historian, Terry Johns, founder of the WWII Historical Re-Enactment Society in February 2023. He went on to use it on the Tracks Across Borders Scenic Byway Convoy covering some 800 miles in the process! Very few of these cars exist and it would make for a perfect museum display and educational piece for wartime reunions! Please look at all the pictures and feel free to call with any questions. We would like to find it a good home!
