This 1927 Studebaker House Car Is a Vintage Motorhome With a Modern Twist
By: Ciprian Florea (autoevolution)
Recreational Vehicle, 1920s style. They just don't make them like they used to.
S E E D E D C O N T E N T
Unlike other car manufacturing companies, Studebaker did not enter the motorhome/camper market. However, Studebaker bodies and chassis were used by some companies that built custom campers in the past. The 1929 Studebaker House Car, which resurfaced in unrestored condition in the late 2000s, is perhaps the most iconic.
Built on a bus chassis and fitted with an inline-eight engine sourced from a Studebaker President , the House Car was one of the first American motorhomes to sport a familiar face. The vehicle was most recently auctioned off in 2016 for $70,000. Its whereabouts are unknown as of this writing, but this 1927 example is a great tribute to the original House Car.
It's unclear when this rig was completed and which company put it together, but it looks period correct at first glance. It's also pristine inside and out thanks to a recent restoration. However, a closer look reveals the motorhome is loaded with modern features (not 21st-century modern, but relative to the car's model year modern).
Although it rides on a Big Six chassis , the motorhome relies on Ford mechanicals. The ad mentions a 1984 Ford one-ton pickup powertrain, including a 460-cubic-inch (7.5-liter) V8 engine bored 0.010 over. Topped by an Edelbrock carburetor, the big-block engine mates with a C6 heavy-duty automatic transmission.
The rest of the powertrain consists of aftermarket parts and components from other car manufacturers. The list includes a Comp Cams camshaft, an Allstar distributor, an MSD ignition coil, a Dana 80 rear end, and a Chevy El Camino fuel tank. It also has Jeep Cherokee rear shocks, a Ford Thunderbird steering assembly, and power brakes.
The camper is equipped with cruise control , Kenwood speakers, and even a rearview camera, which are modern amenities that make vintage trucks a more pleasant experience.
The custom interior is a mix of vintage and modern features. The front section is flanked by wooden cabinets, while the camper section includes a fold-out bed, a fridge, and a sizeable countertop with an electric stove, and a fridge.
The ad also mentions a 5,000-BTU A/C unit, water tanks, 110-volt wall outlets, and an electrical system inverter and converter. A rear-mounted chest provides extra storage room and keeps the 1920s flame alive.
If you're in the market for a vintage-looking camper that's not overly difficult to maintain, this Studebaker will cross the block at Mecum's Indy Fall Special 2025 auction . The gavel drops on October 3. Would you spend your summer vacation in this camper? If so, how much would you pay to take it home?
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RVs seem to have a natural appeal. Maybe that's why they've been around so long.
No doubt, a really long time...
No WC.