Studebaker was pushing innovative designs during the 1950s, and that extended to its truck division. Sales were off compared with the Big 3, yet the South Bend, Indiana, automaker was able to create such memorable vehicles as the Pick of the Day, a 1957 Studebaker Transtar Deluxe pickup truck.
Because of financial constraints, Studebaker pickups plugged along with incremental updates through the ’50s using the basic architecture of its 1949 redesign. For 1957, the trucks were outfitted with a full grille made of fiberglass that successfully modernized the overall look and boosted sales.
Studebaker gave its trucks the Space Age name of Transtar, with the Deluxe model as the top trim level. A stripped-down work-truck model was offered, called the Scotsman instead of Transtar. I don’t think you’d get away with such a blatant stereotype these days.
This Transtar Deluxe received a frame-off restoration in 2017, according to the Okatie, South Carolina, dealer advertising the Studebaker on ClassicCars.com. The redo included a professional rebuild of its 259cid V8 engine, which is linked to a 3-speed manual transmission with overdrive.
“All original or correct parts (except headlight and tail lights that are aftermarket),” the seller says. “Exterior is factory 2-tone colors of turquoise and green with gray-and-teal interior.”
While the turquoise paint scheme and white grille might look just a tad over the top, this was the eye-catching style of these Studebakers back in the day. At least those that were not workaday pickups busy hauling and doing other jobsite chores.
This pickup looks like it would be a nice showpiece for a Studebaker collector, as well as a truck that could be driven on tours with its V8 power and overdrive transmission, which would make highway cruising effortless.
The Studebaker also would be a welcomed entry at any gathering of the clan, as well as at vintage-truck shows where it would stand out in the sea of Chevys and Fords, and the occasional Dodge.
The asking price for this excellent example of Transtar style is $35,900.
To view this vehicle on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
what State in the U S A is the Transtar Deluxe pick up for sale.
South Carolina, as noted in the article
The Scotsman was not offered until 1958 and 1959. It was replaced by the Champ in 1960
The oft-used expression “Frame off” is incorrect. Unless you use a rotisserie and remove the frame, it’s noit even possible to get to the frame without separating it from the body. The correct terms are “Body-off frame” or “ground up.”
Where is the truck located? Can I test drive it? I’m interested –