Studebaker Cars for Sale in Australia: The Ultimate Guide

Hello Jake,

Are you a car enthusiast looking for a unique ride that will turn heads on the road? Look no further than Studebaker cars for sale in Australia. These classic American vehicles are a rare find down under, but with a little research and determination, you can snag one for yourself. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Studebaker cars for sale in Australia, from their history to their pros and cons, and where to find them. Let’s dive in!

Introduction: The History of Studebaker Cars

Studebaker was an American automobile manufacturer that operated from 1852 to 1966. The company started out making wagons and carriages, but eventually transitioned to producing automobiles in the early 20th century. Studebaker cars were known for their unique designs and innovative features, such as the first automatic transmission and the first car radio. Despite their success in the American market, Studebaker struggled financially in the 1950s and 60s and eventually went bankrupt. Today, Studebaker cars are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.

The Golden Hawk

One of the most popular Studebaker models is the Golden Hawk, which was produced from 1956 to 1958. This stylish coupe was designed to compete with the Chevrolet Corvette and the Ford Thunderbird. It featured a powerful V8 engine and a sleek, aerodynamic body. Today, the Golden Hawk is a rare find and highly valued by collectors.

The Avanti

Another beloved Studebaker model is the Avanti, which was produced from 1962 to 1964. This sporty coupe was designed to be a high-performance car that could compete with European sports cars. It featured a fiberglass body and a powerful V8 engine. The Avanti was a critical success but failed financially due to the high production costs. Today, the Avanti is a prized possession among Studebaker collectors.

Finding Studebaker Cars for Sale in Australia

Studebaker cars are a rare find in Australia, but they do pop up from time to time. Your best bet is to scour classic car listing websites and forums, such as Carsales, Classic Cars for Sale Australia, and Australian Classic Car Sales. You can also join Studebaker enthusiast groups on Facebook and other social media platforms to connect with other collectors and potentially find leads on available vehicles.

Importing a Studebaker to Australia

If you can’t find a Studebaker for sale in Australia, you may need to consider importing one from overseas. There are a few things to keep in mind if you go this route. First, you’ll need to ensure that the car meets Australian safety and emissions standards. You’ll also need to arrange for shipping and customs clearance, which can be a complicated process. Finally, you’ll need to factor in the cost of import taxes, which can be quite steep.

The Pros of Owning a Studebaker Car

There are many reasons why owning a Studebaker car is a worthwhile investment for car enthusiasts. Here are just a few:

Unique Design

Studebaker cars are known for their distinctive designs that stand out from other classic cars. Whether you opt for a sleek coupe or a stylish sedan, your Studebaker is sure to turn heads on the road.

Historical Significance

As a former American automobile manufacturer, Studebaker cars have an important place in automotive history. Owning one is like owning a piece of that history.

Great Investment

Studebaker cars are highly valued by collectors, which means they can be a great investment. If you take good care of your Studebaker and keep it in good condition, it could potentially appreciate in value over time.

Fun to Drive

Studebaker cars are known for their smooth rides and responsive handling. If you’re looking for a car that’s fun to drive, a Studebaker might be just what you need.

The Cons of Owning a Studebaker Car

Of course, owning a Studebaker car is not without its drawbacks. Here are a few potential downsides to keep in mind:

Difficult to Find Parts

Since Studebaker cars are no longer produced, finding replacement parts can be a challenge. You may need to search for parts online or have them custom-made, which can be expensive.

Expensive to Repair

Studebaker cars require specialized knowledge and skills to repair, which means that maintenance and repairs can be costly.

Not Ideal for Daily Driving

Due to their age and unique features, Studebaker cars may not be the most practical choice for daily driving. They may be more suited for special occasions or weekend trips.

Studebaker Cars for Sale in Australia: The Complete Guide

Model
Year
Price Range
Location
Condition
Golden Hawk
1956-1958
$30,000-$50,000
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
Good to Excellent
Avanti
1962-1964
$40,000-$60,000
Adelaide, Perth
Good to Excellent

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes Studebaker cars unique?

Studebaker cars are known for their distinctive designs and innovative features, such as the first automatic transmission and the first car radio.

2. Are Studebaker cars easy to find in Australia?

No, Studebaker cars are a rare find in Australia but can be found through classic car listings and forums.

3. How much do Studebaker cars typically cost?

The cost of Studebaker cars can vary widely depending on the model, year, and condition. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30,000 to $60,000 for a Studebaker in good condition.

4. Can I import a Studebaker car to Australia?

Yes, but you’ll need to ensure that the car meets Australian safety and emissions standards and factor in the cost of import taxes.

5. Are Studebaker cars a good investment?

Yes, Studebaker cars are highly valued by collectors and can potentially appreciate in value over time.

6. Are Studebaker cars practical for daily driving?

Not necessarily. Due to their age and unique features, Studebaker cars may be more suited for special occasions or weekend trips.

7. Where can I find Studebaker parts?

You may need to search for parts online or have them custom-made, which can be expensive. Some auto parts stores may also carry Studebaker parts.

Conclusion: Why You Should Consider Buying a Studebaker Car

If you’re a car enthusiast looking for a unique ride that will turn heads, a Studebaker car is a great choice. While they may be hard to find in Australia, the search is worth it for the historical significance, unique design, and potential investment value. Just be prepared to put in the effort to find replacement parts and maintain your Studebaker’s condition over time. Happy hunting!

Disclaimer Regarding Risks

While owning a Studebaker car can be a rewarding experience for car enthusiasts, it’s important to note that there are risks involved. Studebaker cars can be expensive to maintain and repair, and replacement parts may be hard to find. Additionally, importing a Studebaker to Australia can be a complicated and costly process. Before purchasing a Studebaker car, be sure to do your research and consult with experts to ensure that you fully understand the risks involved.