With some exceptions, Studebaker's 1934 basic design was typical of others for 1934. Those exceptions included the 1934 Chrysler and DeSoto Airflows, Cadillacs and LaSalles, and Studebaker's own Land Cruiser model that I wrote about here.
Cadillacs and LaSalles featured all-steel bodies. That is, their tops lacked a central fabric insert that was essentially standard for closed-cars of that era. Studebaker bodies were typical wood-framed, metal-clothed examples.
Today's post highlights nothing unusual. Rather, it presents examples of the 1933-1934 American norm.
Unless noted, photos below were from Studebaker.
Aside from a slightly sloping windshield, the passenger compartment is typical of 1920s and early 1930s design. Somewhat advanced touches (for the times) are the slightly skirted front fender and the sloped, faintly shovel-nose grille.
An important Studebaker brand identification feature in the early '30s was the sad-expression oval headlight design.
Rear ends of Studebaker closed cars were vertical. This example has a larger than usual trunk.
Top of the '33 Studebaker line.
Redesigned 1934 Studebakers were more rounded-looking 1933s. All fenders now have some skirting and the rear is less vertical. But the windshield angle is only slightly greater.
Trunks are essentially standard equipment. Commander and President models had inline eight cylinder motors and long hoods to accommodate them.
The grille remained sloped, but the shovel-nose curve was eliminated. Headlight lenses are conventionally round and placed in fashionable streamlined housings. Front fenders are more elaborately shaped than in 1933.
A brand identification feature for '34 is the two vertical chromes strips on the trunk. Another is the taillight shape.
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