Studebaker Standard Six classic cars for sale

History of the Studebaker Standard Six

Studebaker launched the Standard Six as part of its ambitious programme in the early 1920s, aiming to offer vehicles with robust technical quality to a rapidly growing motoring public. Built in South Bend, Indiana, from 1918 to 1927, the Standard Six shared its platform with the Studebaker Light Six and Light Four, which streamlined manufacturing and maintained a balance between cost-effectiveness and reliability. As motoring technology advanced, Studebaker continuously updated the Standard Six, culminating in the introduction of the more powerful Studebaker Dictator in 1928, which effectively replaced the Standard Six. This period marked a transition from post-WWI utilitarianism to more comfort and performance-focused automobiles.

Model History of the Studebaker Standard Six

The Standard Six grew out of Studebaker's experience building the Light Four and Light Six, utilising the same wheelbase and a similar array of features. Its main predecessor was the Light Six, while its direct successor was the Studebaker Dictator, which carried on many of the mechanical innovations but with updated styling and improved performance. During its production cycle, the Standard Six was offered in a range of body styles, catering to both family buyers and those seeking a more upscale motoring experience.

Highlights of the Studebaker Standard Six

The Standard Six is regarded for its sound chassis construction, making use of American engineering norms of the 1920s, and for its user-friendly mechanicals that allowed for both ease of repair and consistent reliability. It’s notable for its period-appropriate styling, solid ride quality, and being part of a segment that contributed to Studebaker's reputation for durability. In addition, the shared parts with its siblings made servicing practical across several models all produced in the same timeframe.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

No specific special editions of the Studebaker Standard Six stand out in historical records, but cars with rare body styles or period-correct accessories are always of interest to collectors. Factory upgrades as the market moved towards the Dictator often included improved trim and equipment in later model years.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No direct information on typical weak spots is available for the Standard Six. As with most vehicles from this era, close attention should be paid to the condition of the chassis, drivetrain wear, and the presence of original components, as well as rust and aging in bodywork and suspension. Mechanical simplicity aids in ongoing maintenance, and availability of spares can depend on model year and body style.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Standard Six was equipped with a six-cylinder engine, designed for smooth performance and dependable power delivery typical for the time. The vehicle's ride was aimed at passenger comfort rather than outright speed, with a chassis built for durability and consistent handling on the unpaved roads of the 1920s. The three-speed manual gearbox offered straightforward operation, in line with contemporary expectations. While technical data varies, the main highlight remains the six-cylinder configuration and the shared mechanical platform with other Studebaker models of the decade, making for both easy drivability and repairability.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Standard Six featured body styles that represented the conservative but robust tastes of American car buyers in the pre-Depression era. Interiors prioritised function and durability, with comfortable seating and straightforward controls. Exteriors displayed Studebaker’s signature upright stance, broad fenders, and a practical yet elegant silhouette. Special colours and interior trim levels could vary depending on market and year, with some examples featuring period accessories like motometer radiator caps, rear luggage racks, and genuine wood or nickel-plated fittings.

Other Noteworthy Features

Given the Standard Six’s build era, many cars were offered with optional equipment such as side-mounted spare wheels, wire wheels, and early electrical systems which reflected the evolving technology of the period. Attention to originality and matching numbers remains important for value retention.

Summary

The Studebaker Standard Six remains a prominent representative of early American motoring, offering solid engineering, practical design, and a direct link to the era’s industrial advancement. Its prevalence among Studebaker listings demonstrates its ongoing appeal for enthusiasts and collectors, particularly those seeking a classic with historical significance and reliable underpinnings.