1956 Studebaker Commander Parkview Station Wagon

Hagerty Featured Survivor: 1956 Studebaker Commander Parkview Wagon

Own a piece of rolling automotive history. This stunning 1956 Studebaker Commander Parkview is a beautifully preserved, highly original two-door station wagon that stands out as a true rarity in today's classic car market. Originally sourced from Napa, California, this solid "black plate" survivor has escaped the rust that claimed nearly all of its East Coast siblings.

As the mid-range model in Studebaker’s 1956 wagon lineup, the Parkview offered a major mechanical upgrade over the baseline Pelham. Under the hood is the desirable 259.2 cubic-inch overhead-valve V-8 engine, delivering a strong 170 horsepower. Mated to a smooth Borg-Warner Flight-O-Matic automatic transmission, this wagon offers a surprisingly modern and comfortable cruising experience.

This exact vehicle has a rich, well-documented story. It was loved so much by its previous long-term owner that he bought it back twice—most recently reacquiring it to embark on an epic, 4,000-mile cross-country journey from Riverside, California, all the way to Connecticut. The vintage Studebaker performed flawlessly, averaging an impressive 20 MPG.

While the car used a bit of oil during that trek due to worn valve guides, the owner has since completely replaced them. We are happy to report that the engine runs tightly and uses very little oil now. It was celebrated as one of the owner's absolute favorite cars, and its exceptional mechanical health shows it.

With its unique 116.5-inch wheelbase, distinctive 1956 styling, and rich chrome accents, this Parkview wagon is the perfect choice for orphan-car enthusiasts, vintage wagon collectors, or anyone looking for a reliable, turn-key cruiser with an incredible story.