Post-war pickup, 1946 Studebaker M5 brought back to factory condition

Studebaker launched its new M5 half-ton pickup truck in 1941 just before the start of World War II, just in time for it to be enlisted into the war effort.  Following the conflict, Studebaker quickly resumed production of the civilian version with just a few stylistic updates.

Built to compete with trucks produced in the 10s of thousands by the Big 3, the M5 needed to be affordable as well as practical and sharp-looking.  To cut assembly costs, Studebaker designed such things as front and rear fenders that were interchangeable front to rear and running boards made to fit on either side.

The Pick of the Day is an attractive 1946 Studebaker M5 pickup that has been restored to its original specifications, according to the Orange, Connecticut, dealer advertising the truck on ClassicCars.com.

OK, so maybe wide whitewalls were not part of the ensemble for these hard-working trucks, but otherwise, this Studie looks like it might have more than 7 decades ago. It’s not often that you see one of these trucks restored to original, more often done with modern resto-mod updates for improved drivability.

“The 1946 M5 pickup offered here is a wonderfully restored example just out of a 40-year ownership where it has been well kept and more recently restored,” the dealer says in the ad. “The cab and bed are in perfect condition showing no signs of ever being in disrepair. The upholstery has been redone to a very high and correct standard.

“Mechanically, the L-head six-cylinder flathead engine runs very well and the three-speed transmission shifts as it should. Finished in its original colors of beige with a brown interior and red wheels, this M5 is really sharp and certainly will stand out at a show or on the road.”

Post-war pickup trucks have become increasingly popular among collectors who appreciate their classic looks and generally affordable price tags.  The M5 is a handsome example of industrial design from that era, with its compact size and streamline flourishes harking back to the 1930s.

“The M5’s styling with its tall shape, swept-back Vee windshield, trim dimensions, simple ornamentation and nicely rounded fenders is particularly attractive and certainly stands out amongst the more commonly seen Fords and Chevys,” the dealer notes.

What’s also attractive about this Studebaker is its asking price of just $28,000.

To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.