I wrote here about the 1957 Sunbeam Rapier's resemblence tp Loewy's classic 1953 Studebaker coupes.
It seems that Studebaker-like styling also applied to some of Rootes' saloons. Below are images comparing a Studebaker sedan to a Singer Gazelle and a Hillman Minx. Photos are either factory-sourced or are of cars listed for sale.
First, a reprise of hardtop coupé designs. Above is the classic Studebaker.
Similarities to the Studebaker include the passenger compartment greenhouse window treatment, "frenched" headlight assemblies, and the fenderline.
A large '53 Studebaker sedan.
Again, the greenhouse, fenderline and "frenching" are Studebaker carryover themes.
These Hillmans shared bodies with the Gazelles.
Greetings Mr Pittenger. I have a '53 Loewy coup and also until recently a '72 Karmann Ghia soft top. Putting them side by side is an eyeopener as the lines are amazingly similar. Was there a connection there between Loewy or Raymond Burk and KG??
ReplyDeleteRegards
Guy
Guy -- The Karmann-Ghia was a Ghia design whose fenderline most observers believe was inspired by the 1953 Chrysler D'Elegnce show car styled by Virgil Exner and his staff. As for the '53 Studebaker coupe, I suppose its grille and the frontal air vent openings on the KG have a whiff of similarity, but otherwise any connection with the Studebaker would likely be due to general trends of sporty car styling around 1954.
ReplyDelete