Studillac

The Studillac was a modified Studebaker automobile, most commonly a 1953 Studebaker Champion or Commander coupe, fitted with a Cadillac engine. These modifications were popular in the 1950s and 1960s, primarily among hot rodders and drag racers seeking a lightweight body with a powerful engine. The Studebaker coupes of that era were known for their sleek design and relatively light weight, while Cadillac engines were known for their displacement and horsepower.

The Studillac name is a portmanteau of "Studebaker" and "Cadillac," clearly indicating the combination of the two marques. The modifications were not factory-built; rather, they were aftermarket conversions performed by individual enthusiasts or small custom shops. While variations existed depending on the builder, the typical Studillac involved removing the original Studebaker engine and transmission and replacing them with a Cadillac V8 engine, along with necessary modifications to the chassis, suspension, and drivetrain to accommodate the increased power.

The appeal of the Studillac lay in its improved performance. The Cadillac engine offered a significant power boost compared to the stock Studebaker engine, resulting in a faster and more responsive vehicle. The lightweight Studebaker body further enhanced this performance advantage. The Studillac represents a significant example of early hot rod culture, where modifying and combining different automotive components to achieve superior performance was a common practice.