In 1953, Studebaker proudly ran ads that announced that they had received a “Fashion Academy Award” – the gold medal for outstanding design and distinctive styling presented to the then-new American car with the European look.

The directors of Fashion Academy, the noted New York school of fashion design, awarded Studebaker their coveted gold medal for style and design. Other prominent authorities on the art of automobile design joined many interested motorists in acclaiming their outstanding distinction. Motor World reported, “There can be no question about it, Studebaker has, with its new model, made every other American car look ten years older.”

This is a beautiful 1953 Studebaker Commander Starliner Coupe, Model 4H-K5 that is reported to have been sparingly used over the course of its existence. It is an iconic car that is certainly deserving of attention. This car was donated to the AACA Museum in 2003 and has been on display a number of times throughout its stay at this esteemed collection.

It is reported that the exterior of the Studebaker still has “100-percent” all-original paint which has a few chips, but shines “like new.” The paint is presented in Studebaker color code 2470, which is the factory two-tone code for Coral Red upper paint (top) and Ivory Mist lower (body). The stainless steel elements are said to be in great condition with no major deficiencies; however, the chrome (which is all original) is hazing and pitted in selected areas. The Starliner is also equipped with factory tinted glass. It also came from the factory with whitewall tires and code AC 2314 disc brakes. This is confirmed via the car’s Production Order Sheet which accompanies the car.

The interior has saddle-toned vinyl seats that are also reported to be in like new condition. The carpets are a complementary dark brown that is in nice condition, but does display some spots that are blemished. The dash and interior chrome are very nice with the chrome and paint shining as when new. The door panels and headliner have a similar level of “like new” condition. The back seat is highlighted by a fixed center armrest that creates the feeling of rear bucket seats.

The 232-cid V-8 engine runs “great” and has no major shortcomings; it runs smooth and the overdrive transmission shifts without any trouble. The transmission and clutch work just as they should. The car has been sitting for a period of time and has not been driven any distance, so it is suggested that before it is put into any regular service, the Studebaker should be checked. The car still has its original exhaust on it; the tailpipe will be in need of replacement.

The chassis of the Studebaker is “super solid underneath with no problems at all.” It does not have any of the typical rust issues that normally show on many vintage Studebakers; assisting in making this Studebaker Starliner Commander an important car for many collectors.

The vehicle starts and runs well, but since it has been part of a collection for the last few years, the buyer is advised that it may require some degree of re-commissioning before placing it into routine service.