Studebaker can legitimately claim to be the oldest vehicle manufacturer in the US. Started in 1852, the company built a reputation for solid, reliable vehicles and was one of the first manufacturers to cast four- and six-cylinder engines in a monobloc design. In 1928, the marque introduced the eight-cylinder President model, featuring a 313 cid engine that produced 100 hp, and its refined build quality made it a true luxury automobile.

Studebaker built 6,340 President Model 80s in all body styles in 1931, a small fraction of which were produced in the sporting Four Seasons Roadster body style. As few as 54 are thought to still exist, and these powerful, attractive roadsters have always been held in high regard.

According to a previous Christie’s description on file, this lovely Roadster was acquired by collector Philip Wichard from an enthusiast in Maine as a complete car in need of refurbishment. Mr. Wichard had this example restored in 1988 by Jim Hurry’s Fountain Inn Coachworks, and post-restoration, the Studebaker won an AACA National First Prize.

Part of the Stan Lucas Collection since 2007, and formerly owned by noted enthusiast John D. Groendyke, the Roadster’s numerous period accessories elevate its desirability even further, making it a true prize for the astute collector.