USA vs USA — 1953 vs 1946
| Starliner Commander V8 | Champion Regal Starlight Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 185 hp | 85 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 120 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,244 cc | 2,786 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 19.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 85 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 22.0 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,750 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,023 mm | 2,921 mm |
| Length | 5,029 mm | 4,953 mm |
| Units Produced | 13,058 | — |
| Original MSRP | — | $1,472 |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $30,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1953 Studebaker Starliner Commander V8 brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1946 Studebaker Champion Regal Starlight Coupe answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Studebaker has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1953 Studebaker Starliner Commander V8 with the 1946 Studebaker Champion Regal Starlight Coupe highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1953 Studebaker Starliner Commander V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 185 hp compared to 85 hp, a 100-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Starliner uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,244 cc, while the Studebaker Champion relies on a Inline-6 L-Head with 2,786 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1953 Studebaker Starliner Commander V8 edges ahead at 10.5 seconds versus 19.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1953 Studebaker Starliner Commander V8 commands a significant premium over the 1946 Studebaker Champion Regal Starlight Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.