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You knew it was coming. After the tremendous success of DM’s 1950 Studebaker Champion Convertible, it was only natural for DM to follow up with a coupe version. But instead of producing another 1950 model, however, they chose to give us a 1951 Commander Coupe iteration with some other differences thrown in. It just adds some spice to the new little dish. Studebakers are an acquired taste and the Commander version goes a long way in satisfying those of us that savor this marque.
First, consider the huge difference between the drop-top’s body and this Starlight coupe. The convertible is sleek and relatively simple in design, especially with the top down. With it up, and in a different color than the body, it provides a distinct sight contrast. The coupe, with its four-panel window backlights, is highly unique in its looks. The engine is different, the seats are different and, well, we will get to it all. The Commander is painted a color that I recall seeing a number of Studes cloaked in way back then. Was it a popular choice? Must have been, at least in my recollection. It is Comanche Red, with the correct corresponding Sahara Sand wheels. This is not just another maroon car. The 1950 Crestliner is Coronation Red, a hue with a definite "brick red” flavor, leaning towards a brownish shade. DM’s 1949 Mercury is a true burgundy, perhaps more of Claret, deep and rich. If nostalgia interests you, as it does me, this is a grand color choice. The seats are a dramatic highlight, color-wise. They are a grey-green and sand shade in cord-type fabric, simulated in vinyl. The floor is flocked in grey, the dash, steering wheel and column, the roof liner and mirror-back are blue-grey, as are the door panels. The visors fold down from the roof and the seats fold far forward. The detail is excellent on the gauges and foot pedals and the radio, door knobs and window cranks are extremely well defined. I have to divulge that when this model was in development, the DM guys received fabric samples from a well known Studebaker restoration shop right here in my area, Knoxville, Tennessee. Seat fabric, carpeting, door panel and headliner material was furnished to our DM boys!
The door hinges are internally hidden, like the previous 1950 model but the door edge detail is better. The lock mechanism simulation is terrific. Externally, DM paid attention to all of the little appetizers. You’ll note that the taillights are different from the Champion. They are larger and more pronounced. DM nailed it. The external trunk latch is different and an additional “V-8” emblem has been added. The rear bumper is free of the dual overriders and the separate backup lights of the Champion are gone, as they should be on the Commander. The trunk mat is a plaid addition over the plain grey floor of the Champion and once again, DM got that right too. The fuel filler door still opens. Push in from the top, it opens from the bottom. The correct chrome rear gravel shields are in place. The Champion model had rubber shields for 1951. Also on the side of the car, there is no model script as there is on the “Champion”, but the fender vents are still fully operational. It seems that they stay open better on my example. The antenna disappears into the body cowl yet is scaled delightfully. Up front there are some changes too. The bottom leading edge of the hood has red script signifying that this is a “Commander”. It replaces the chrome ribs of the Champion. There is an aircraft hood ornament above the imbedded Studebaker emblem. Check under the hood for the main entrée. We now have a V-8 with all of the plug wires and accoutrements, soup to nuts. Don’t overlook the hood hinges. They are perfection. There is a prop rod if you desire to pull it up. The engine jumps to life with exact scaling of wires, fuel and electric lines and even a hood release cable. This is easily one of the most detailed engine bays I’ve looked at in this scale! Like a prime and properly aged steak; well done, DM.
The chassis is brilliantly detailed. Emergency brake cabling, fuel lines, and operating suspension are all in tune. The steering components are different in the ’51 and again, DM didn’t miss a beat. Studebaker switched over to, “Center Point” steering and the change was made on this model. The change to the tie rods and A-arm configuration is complete. The Champion has twin struts holding the front bumper, with overriders but the Commander has a front sub-frame splash pan that holds the single-beam bumper. That is what is replicated here. Oh, almost forgot, consider this dessert, the fender skirts are removable, just like on the Champion model.
DM built another beautiful model with all of the detailing you could possibly imagine in a diecast of this size. It’s the perfect compliment to the Champion convertible; the colors are rich and diverse when displayed together and make a great conversation starter, especially for those of us old enough to remember and appreciate this fine automobile. DM scores a well deserved 9.87 on the Thrillometer! Order number 443-10, the issue price is $115.
(05/26/2005)
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