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1955 Studebaker President: A Pinnacle of Post-War Automotive Excellence

The 1955 Studebaker President stands as a testament to the innovation and resilience of the post-war American automotive industry. Born from the Studebaker Corporation, an emblematic figure in the realm of car manufacturing, the President was more than just a vehicle; it was a symbol of the era's optimism and technological advancement. In its prime, it captured the imagination of a nation eager to drive into a future filled with promise and possibility. One particularly intriguing fact about this model is that it marked the return of the prestigious 'President' nameplate after a hiatus during World War II, signifying Studebaker's commitment to reclaiming its status in the luxury car market.

Design and Innovation

The 1955 Studebaker President was a marvel of mid-century design, boasting sleek lines and a forward-leaning stance that seemed to usher in the Space Age. Its exterior styling featured a bold grille and wraparound windshield that were both aesthetic and aerodynamic triumphs. Inside, passengers were greeted with an interior that exuded luxury, from plush seating upholstered with high-quality materials to an elegantly designed dashboard. Technologically, it was ahead of its time with features like power steering and automatic transmission options—amenities that were not yet standard in all cars. The President was available in several eye-catching colors, with Tiara Gold and Velvet Black being among the most popular choices. Body styles varied, but it was the two-door coupe with its distinctive 'C' pillar that became iconic.

Historical Significance

The 1955 Studebaker President made an indelible mark on automotive history through its blend of performance, luxury, and style. It set itself apart with its unique combination of high-end features at a competitive price point, challenging the notion that luxury had to be unattainable for the average American. This vehicle's influence is evident in how it paved the way for future models to balance opulence with practicality.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior lay an engine capable of impressive performance for its time. The President could achieve top speeds that rivaled its contemporaries and boasted commendable acceleration, sprinting from 0-60 mph in just seconds. Its handling characteristics were equally noteworthy; drivers often remarked on its smooth ride quality even when navigating less forgiving road conditions. The symphony of its V8 engine provided an auditory backdrop to what many considered an exhilarating driving experience.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the 1955 Studebaker President enjoyed a vehicle versatile enough to serve as a daily driver or as an attention-grabbing show car. Its reliability was notable for the era, though like any classic car, maintenance required dedication and sometimes patience. Parts could be scarce, but a dedicated community of enthusiasts often meant support was only a club meeting or forum post away.

Fun Facts

The 1955 Studebaker President has been associated with various interesting tidbits throughout its history. For instance, certain models were produced in limited numbers making them highly sought after by collectors today. While not known for breaking speed records, it held its own in terms of sales success within its segment during its production years. Despite criticisms over some design elements being too avant-garde for conservative tastes at the time, it has since been celebrated for those same bold choices.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1955 Studebaker President remains a cherished piece among classic car collectors. With production numbers estimated in the thousands, it's considered relatively rare but still accessible enough for enthusiasts to find and restore. In terms of value range, well-maintained examples can fetch anywhere from mid-five figures up to six figures depending on originality, condition, and historical provenance. The market trend shows appreciation over time as more collectors recognize the significance and allure of this mid-50s gem.

Conclusion

In retrospect, the 1955 Studebaker President stands as a crowning achievement for an automaker that consistently strived for excellence against all odds. It encapsulated the spirit of innovation and luxury that defined an era while leaving an enduring legacy on automotive design and culture. For those fortunate enough to own or encounter one today, it offers a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in American history—a rolling sculpture representing progress and prestige.

1955 Studebaker President Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each-AP 22Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each

1955 Studebaker President 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

1955 Studebaker President Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1955 Studebaker President 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

1955 Studebaker President 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

1955 Studebaker President 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

1955 Studebaker President 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

1955 Studebaker President 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

1955 Studebaker President Headlight Ring Seal. 8-5/8" O.D., 7-7/8" I.D. Pair-HR 16Headlight Ring Seal. 8-5/8" O.D., 7-7/8" I.D. Pair

1955 Studebaker President Stratovue Mirror Base Pad. 1-3/8" wide X 6-1/8" long-MP 965-DStratovue Mirror Base Pad. 1-3/8" wide X 6-1/8" long. Each

1955 Studebaker President Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each-MP 979Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each

1955 Studebaker President Steering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each-SC 24-ASteering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each

1955 Studebaker President 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

1955 Studebaker President Flexible window channel-WC 10-96Flexible window channel. Rubber covered with mohair lining and stainless steel bead. 96 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 or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1955 Studebaker President Front Vent Window Seals-WR 9404Front Vent Window Seals. Will not fit Hardtops, only Pillar Models. Each piece 29" long. Pair