1931 Studebaker President Coupe
The Studebaker President line was the premiere model for Studebaker from 1926 until 1942. The nameplate was reintroduced in 1955 and continued through the 1958 model when it was retired.The Studebaker President line succeeded the Big Six as the top of the line model for Studebaker. The 1931 Coupe pictured was the first model year to introduce the “ovaloid” or oblong headlamps that became a signature look for the high end Studebaker antique autos.
Additional improvements for 1931 included a drilled crankshaft to aid engine oiling efficiency, valve spring dampers, and a straight through muffler. The engine, a straight eight cylinder of 312 cubic inch displacement, made 122 horsepower. It had 9 main bearings as opposed to other engines of similar design that only had 5. This was made possible by the increased oiling efficiency of the drilled crankshaft. The car had modern type filters for engine oil, air and fuel. The engine also featured a vibration damper that smoothed out the power pulses created by straight eight engine.