Studebaker Commander
A long-running nameplate from 1927 to 1966, the Commander's market position shifted from Studebaker's top model to a mid-range offering. It's famous for its diverse and iconic designs, including the 'bullet nose' models of the early 50s and the sleek, European-inspired 1953 coupes.
Studebaker Commander sold for a median of $19,000 over the last 12 months, based on 15 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $10,100 and $24,750. 55 currently for sale.
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Seen across 4 sites in the last 30 days.
Studebaker Commander prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1927 | – | – | 0 | 2 |
| 1928 | – | – | 0 | 0 |
| 1929 | $9.7k | – | 2 | 4 |
| 1930 | $26k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 1931 | – | – | 1 | 1 |
| 1935 | $19k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 1937 | – | – | 0 | 0 |
| 1938 | – | – | 0 | 2 |
| 1940 | – | – | 0 | 0 |
| 1941 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
| 1947 | $13k | – | 3 | 1 |
| 1948 | $9.9k | $5.6k–$17k | 4 | 2 |
| 1949 | $6k | – | 2 | 3 |
| 1950 | $11k | $6.9k–$19k | 4 | 2 |
| 1951 | $20k | – | 3 | 5 |
| 1952 | $16k | – | 2 | 5 |
| 1953 | $20k | $18k–$27k | 14 | 11 |
| 1954 | $29k | $19k–$49k | 11 | 1 |
| 1955 | $17k | $11k–$19k | 7 | 9 |
| 1956 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
| 1957 | – | – | 0 | 2 |
| 1964 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The Studebaker Commander was a mainstay in the company's lineup for decades, first appearing in 1927 and lasting until the brand's final days in 1966. Over its long run, it served various roles, from Studebaker's top model in its early years to a mid-range offering after World War II. Its history reflects the evolution of American automotive design, with models ranging from classic 1930s sedans to the famous 'bullet nose' cars of 1950-1951 and the sleek, European-inspired coupes of 1953.
Collectors appreciate the Commander for its diverse styling and historical significance as a product of an independent automaker. The Raymond Loewy-designed Starliner and Starlight coupes from 1953 are particularly sought after for their advanced, low-slung profiles. Convertibles from any era are rare and desirable, as are the supercharged Gran Turismo Hawk-based Commanders from the early 1960s. The wide variety of body styles and engine choices, including a potent V8 introduced in 1951, provides many different entry points for enthusiasts.
Buying Tips
- Check for rust thoroughly, especially in floor pans, trunk floors, lower fenders, and around the headlights.
- On post-1951 V8 models, inspect the engine for signs of oil leaks or overheating. Parts for Studebaker V8s aren't as common as those for the Big Three.
- For 1950-1951 'bullet nose' cars, ensure the chrome spinner and grille assembly are complete and in good condition, as they are costly to replace.
- Examine all chrome trim and die-cast parts for pitting or damage. Sourcing specific trim pieces can be a challenge.
- Verify the operation of the optional automatic 'Automatic Drive' or overdrive transmissions, as rebuilding them requires specialized knowledge.
504 Studebaker Commander vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 55 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Studebaker Commander cost?
Over the last 12 months, Studebaker Commander sold for a median of $19,000 across 15 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $10,100 and $24,750. There are 55 currently for sale.
How many Studebaker Commander listings are for sale right now?
There are 55 Studebaker Commander listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.