1923 Studebaker Special Six EL Touring

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The 1923 Studebaker Special Six EL Touring was a hallmark of early American automotive engineering and represented Studebaker’s commitment to quality, durability, and innovation during the Roaring Twenties. As part of the Special Six series, which debuted in 1918, the '23 model was positioned as a mid-range offering between the more economical Light Six and the upscale Big Six. 

Built in South Bend, Indiana, the Special Six Touring featured a 288 cubic-inch inline-six engine, delivering reliable power through a three-speed manual transmission. It was known for its robust construction, with a four-bearing crankshaft, force-feed lubrication, and a tubular radiator cooled by a water pump — advanced features for its time. 

The Touring body style, with its open-air design and seating for 5-7 passengers, was ideal for families and travelers. It rode on a 120-inch wheelbase and featured wooden wheels, semi-elliptic rear springs, and rear-wheel drive, offering a comfortable ride on the rough roads of the era. Standard equipment included a speedometer, electric horn, rearview mirror, and a Boyce MotoMeter to monitor engine temperature.  

This 1923 Studebaker Special Six Touring was disassembled in the 1950s and stored while the engine and transmission were temporarily used to power a ball mill (grinding machine). It was restored and rebuilt in the 1990s. 

Highlights 

• Underwent a complete body off restoration abut 30 years ago 

• Refinished in khaki and black paint 

• Black heavy-duty vinyl in a tuck and roll pattern (including door panels and kick panels) 

• Folding black top, original bevel cut with oval windows 

• Powered by a rebuilt 288 cu-in L-head inline-six engine that has been upgraded to Big Six specs with boring and the addition of Big Six head and two-stage carburetor 

• An electric fuel pump runs through the original vacuum pump with an automatic cut-off switch 

• Entire electrical system is isolated by a single master switch 

• Three-speed manual transmission 

Features 

• Radiator-mounted MotoMeter temperature gauge with optional winged cap 

• Driver’s side running board with step plates and optional folding luggage rack 

• Passenger side running board with optional rack and special color-coded gas can, oil can, and water can for emergencies 

• Optional chrome Bi-flex bumpers, front and rear 

• Antique directional signals (fully functional) 

• Rear trunk partially houses the spare tire, along with tools and accessories 

• Each door has a pocket on the panel; driver’s door is lockable 

• Rear seat has a functional pullout reading light and hot brick-style foot warmer 

• Fully restored original wood steering wheel 

• 75 mph circular dial speedometer, gauges for amperes and oil pressure, and clock  

• Five optional solid Budd wheels, powder-coated light khaki with dark red lock rings 

• Goodrich Silvertown 32x4 tires 

• Kept in weather-tight garage since restoration 

Known Imperfections 

• Paint imperfections (chips, scuffs, and light surface rust) with cracks and paint loss on hood below windshield and behind the MotorMeter 

• Dents on driver’s side rocker panel 

• Carburetor may need a rebuild 

• Lights work except the dashboard reading light 

Included 

• Rear trunk contents: Hydraulic jack, lug wrench, leather headlight covers to protect the original headlight lenses, fire extinguisher, and tonneau cover that snaps over the interior when parked with the top down 

• Some documentation 

Ownership History

The Nevada seller of this 1923 Studebaker Special Six EL Touring has owned it since June 2008. The seller says, “This car was dismantled in the 1950s, and the body was carefully stored in a barn with the intention of being rebuilt for street use.  The engine and transmission were temporarily used to power a ball mill.  All the parts, including the powertrain, were rebuilt, painted in khaki and black, and restored.  The engine and powertrain were restored by a Caterpillar mechanic.  The car has numerous add-ons, and new tires were purchased about 8 years ago. The top and interior are beautiful and without flaws. The car has been garage kept in dry Nevada for the last 20+ years. Parade-goers love it and it’s been used for wedding parties. I hate to sell it, but I don't drive it much anymore, and I'm in the twilight of my life and need the room.”