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1950 Studebaker Commander: A Study in Postwar Innovation

The 1950 Studebaker Commander stands as a testament to postwar American ingenuity, a vehicle that broke away from the conventional design norms of its era. Born from the creative minds at Studebaker, an automotive manufacturer with a storied history dating back to the days of horse-drawn wagons, this car emerged as a symbol of the company's resilience and forward-thinking approach in the wake of World War II. Among its many accolades, the Commander is often remembered for its role in pioneering the "bullet-nose" front end, which would become an iconic element of early 1950s automotive design.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1950 Studebaker Commander was nothing short of revolutionary. Its streamlined silhouette, characterized by a bold, bullet-nose front end that seemed to slice through the air, was both futuristic and polarizing. The sleek contours and wraparound rear window hinted at an era of jet propulsion and space exploration. Inside, passengers were treated to an array of high-quality materials and thoughtful touches that spoke to Studebaker's commitment to comfort and style. The dashboard was elegantly designed with driver ergonomics in mind, while the seats were upholstered in premium fabrics that have stood the test of time.

Technologically, the Commander was ahead of its time, featuring advancements such as automatic transmission options and powerful V8 engines that were uncommon among competitors. Color options ranged from deep maroons to striking blues, with popular choices reflecting the optimism of postwar America. Body styles included sedans, coupes, and convertibles, with the Starlight coupe being particularly sought after for its distinctive panoramic rear window.

Historical Significance

The 1950 Studebaker Commander didn't just turn heads—it turned the tide for automotive design. It boldly challenged the status quo with its avant-garde aesthetics and engineering feats. This car set itself apart from contemporaries by offering a glimpse into a future where cars were not just modes of transportation but also statements of style and innovation. Its lasting influence can be seen in the designs that followed in the subsequent decade.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1950 Studebaker Commander boasted commendable performance for its time. With a top speed that could reach over 90 mph and acceleration capable of pushing from 0-60 mph in under 15 seconds, it held its own on America's rapidly expanding highway system. The ride quality was smooth, absorbing bumps with grace while maintaining stability on winding roads—a testament to Studebaker's engineering prowess. Drivers often remarked on the throaty rumble of the engine—a sound that still resonates with classic car enthusiasts today.

Ownership Experience

The Commander served various roles ranging from a reliable daily driver to a cherished show car or even an occasional racer in vintage events. Its maintenance profile was generally favorable for mechanically inclined owners who appreciated straightforward repairs without excessive complexity. However, sourcing specific parts today can be a challenge due to limited production numbers.

Fun Facts

This classic has seen its share of limelight—from gracing movie screens to being owned by celebrities who appreciated its unique charm. Although not known for setting speed records, it did set sales records for Studebaker at the time. Criticisms often focused on its polarizing design—some loved it; others didn't know what to make of it.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-preserved 1950 Studebaker Commander can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 or more depending on condition and originality. While exact production numbers are hard to pin down, it's estimated that tens of thousands were produced—making them relatively rare but not impossible to find for dedicated collectors. The value has steadily appreciated over time as more enthusiasts recognize the Commander's place in automotive history.

Conclusion

The 1950 Studebaker Commander is more than just a classic car; it's a rolling piece of art that encapsulates a pivotal moment in American automotive history. Its bold design choices and technological innovations paved the way for future trends and continue to captivate those who appreciate vintage automobiles' unique character and charm.

1950 Studebaker Commander Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each-AP 22Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 45Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 2-3/4" wide X 4-1/8" long, with 1-5/8" long inner slot. Pair

1950 Studebaker Commander Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 5/8" high-BN 13Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 5/8" high., with 3/8" I.D. Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1-1/16" bottom O.D-BN 14Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1-1/16" bottom O.D. X 1-1/2" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 16Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/8" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" Diameter. Pair-CB 81Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" Diameter. Pair

1950 Studebaker Commander Brake Pedal Pad. For models with automatic transmission-CB 87Brake Pedal Pad. For models with automatic transmission. 3" wide X 7-1/8" long. Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Gas Filler Grommet. 1-3/4" I.D., 4-3/8" O.D. Each-GF 31Gas Filler Grommet. 1-3/4" I.D., 4-3/8" O.D. Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Gas Filler Grommet. Perfect reproduction. Top 2-1/16" I.D-GF 45Gas Filler Grommet. Perfect reproduction. Top 2-1/16" I.D., 3-7/16" O.D. Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Hood Corners. Original design. 2-3/4" wide. Pair-HC 18Hood Corners. Original design. 2-3/4" wide. Pair

1950 Studebaker Commander Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each-MP 979Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Mirror Pad. 1-5/8" wide X 7-3/8" long. Each-MP 979-BMirror Pad. 1-5/8" wide X 7-3/8" long. Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Steering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each-SC 24-ASteering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Headlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D-SM 13-AHeadlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D. Each

1950 Studebaker Commander Flexible glass-run channel-WC 11-72Flexible glass-run channel. Mohair lined, cloth covered with stainless steel bead. Used on side windows. 72 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1950 Studebaker Commander Flexible sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 8-72Flexible sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. Used on inner and outer beltlines. Also forms easily for use with sliding quarter windows. 72 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned into two equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1950 Studebaker Commander Front Vent Window Seals-WR 9400Front Vent Window Seals. For all sedans '47-'50, for 2-door sedans '51-'52. Pair

1950 Studebaker Commander Front Vent Window Seals, for Convertibles-WR 9403Front Vent Window Seals, for Convertibles. 28-1/4" long each. Pair R&L