Description
Studebaker Champion Regal Starlight Coupe | 1953
Highlights:
– 2.8-Litre, 6-cylinder petrol engine with manual transmission
– Belgian-delivered car with original 1954 D’Ieteren invoice
– Freshly repainted and chrome in fine shape
– Original interior in well preserved condition
– Mechanical overhaul in 2024 after long museum storage
The seller offers for sale this 1953 Studebaker Champion Regal Starlight Coupe, an elegant Raymond Loewy–designed classic delivered new in Belgium and accompanied by its original D’Ieteren invoice made out to the first owner in Brussels in June 1954. After spending decades in the private museum, the car was purchased by the current owner in October 2024. Having been immobile for years, the Studebaker received a major mechanical recommissioning, including replacement of the carburettor, water pump, brake cylinders, master cylinder, servicing of the fuel tank and lines, and attention to the electrical system. The straight-six engine now runs smoothly, without smoke or unusual noises. The bodywork is in beautiful condition and has been resprayed to a high standard, with chrome trim showing minimal pitting and the chassis reported free of visible rust. The original artificial-leather interior remains in well preserved shape, with only light wear to the floor mat, now protected by removable rubber mats. The car has not yet been re-registered since leaving the museum but presents as a well-preserved and distinctive survivor.
The 1953 Studebaker Champion is considered one of the most influential American automotive designs of its era. Raymond Loewy’s team created a sleek, forward-leaning profile with a low roofline, clean surfaces and pronounced wraparound rear window, making the Starlight Coupé an instant style icon. The design contrasted sharply with the more conservative shapes of its competitors and is today celebrated by collectors and historians for its innovation and elegance. Mechanically simple yet dependable, the Champion was appreciated for its smooth inline-six engine, comfortable ride and surprising aerodynamic qualities. These cars enjoy strong recognition among enthusiasts of 1950s Americana, especially early examples such as the 1953 model year, which is widely considered the most desirable. This Belgian-assembled Starlight Coupé combines rarity, styling significance and strong preservation, making it an appealing choice for design-focused collectors.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Brussels region, Belgium.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Belgian registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in their own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
