The 1963 Studebaker Cruiser represents a dignified chapter in the final years of the historic South Bend automaker. This particular sedan carries a rare emotional weight, having remained within the same family since the mid-1960s. Originally purchased in New Jersey by the late owner’s grandmother, it eventually migrated to California in the 1980s. It stands today as a testament to long-term preservation and the enduring charm of Studebaker’s luxury-oriented compact designs. Such an unbroken chain of ownership provides a level of provenance that is increasingly difficult to find in the modern collector market.
Exterior Refinement and Paint Transition
At some point during its sixty-year tenure, the vehicle underwent a color change to the clean white shade it wears today. The body retains its signature quad headlights and bright bumpers that characterize the refined Cruiser trim level. Dual side mirrors and polished stainless accents help define its upright and formal silhouette. While the paint shows the passage of time, the structural honesty of the car remains intact. This exterior presentation reflects a vehicle that was used and enjoyed rather than hidden away in static storage.
A Vibrant Red Cloth Interior
Stepping inside reveals a striking red cloth interior that provides a bold contrast to the white exterior bodywork. The bench seating remains plush and comfortable, recalling an era of simple and spacious passenger accommodations. Modern conveniences include front seatbelts for added safety and an aftermarket stereo for entertainment during coastal drives. A cabin heater is present to keep the interior cozy during cooler morning commutes. Although the gear indicator has become difficult to read over time, the rest of the dashboard retains its period-correct functionality and layout.
Handling Characteristics and Chassis Maintenance
The car sits on 15-inch steel wheels that feature color-matched painted covers for a cohesive look. Power steering was equipped from the factory, making this four-door sedan remarkably easy to maneuver in modern traffic. The current owner notes that the Hankook tires are aged and should be replaced before any significant road trips. Beneath the chassis, the mechanical simplicity of the Studebaker platform ensures that maintenance remains straightforward for the next caretaker. Transitioning from New Jersey salt to the California sun has likely helped preserve the underlying metal components of this family treasure.
Engine Performance and Drivetrain Specifications
The mechanical heart of this 1963 Studebaker Cruiser is a robust 289ci V8 engine. Factory-rated at 210 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, it features a traditional two-barrel carburetor setup. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a smooth three-speed automatic transmission. This drivetrain combination was respected in its day for providing reliable and effortless highway cruising speeds. With only 53k miles showing on the five-digit odometer, the engine remains a strong performer with plenty of life left for weekend exhibitions. These specifications highlight the car’s role as a premium, high-torque offering for the 1963 model year.
Summary
The 1963 Studebaker Cruiser is a charming and historically significant sedan that offers an accessible entry point into classic car ownership. Its sixty-year family history adds a layer of character that new restorations simply cannot replicate. Offered at no reserve, it represents a fantastic opportunity for an enthusiast to continue a legacy of dedicated care. Whether intended for a light restoration or enjoyed as a rolling survivor, this Cruiser is ready for its next chapter. It remains a proud survivor from one of America’s most innovative independent automobile manufacturers.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
