1939 Studebaker Custom sets the stage for this enthralling narrative, offering readers a glimpse into a story that is rich in detail and brimming with originality from the outset. This classic American beauty was a shining star in the Studebaker lineup, captivating drivers with its sleek design and powerful performance.
The 1939 Studebaker Custom was more than just a car; it was a symbol of elegance, innovation, and American ingenuity. From its distinctive grille and flowing lines to its luxurious interior and impressive engine options, the 1939 Studebaker Custom was a true icon of its time.
The 1939 Studebaker Custom was a standout in the crowded automotive landscape of the late 1930s. Studebaker, known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, had created a vehicle that embodied the spirit of the era. The 1939 Custom was a testament to the brand’s ability to blend timeless design with cutting-edge technology, making it a true icon of American automotive history.
Studebaker’s 1939 Custom: A Style Icon: 1939 Studebaker Custom
The Studebaker Corporation, a name synonymous with American automotive history, has a legacy spanning over a century. Known for their innovative designs and sturdy construction, Studebaker cars were popular choices for families and businesses alike. The 1939 model year marked a significant turning point for the company, introducing a new era of stylish and streamlined automobiles.
This era brought forth the Studebaker Custom, a distinct model that captured the hearts of many with its sleek aesthetics and modern features.
The Studebaker Custom: A Distinct Model
The 1939 Studebaker Custom stood out from the rest of the lineup, boasting a more refined and luxurious design. It offered a blend of elegance and practicality, catering to discerning drivers who sought both style and performance. The Custom’s distinctive features included:
- A longer wheelbase, providing a more spacious and comfortable interior.
- A unique grille design, featuring horizontal chrome bars that accentuated the car’s width and presence.
- A streamlined body, emphasizing aerodynamic efficiency and a modern aesthetic.
- Interior upgrades, including plush upholstery, woodgrain accents, and improved sound insulation.
Design and Styling
The 1939 Studebaker Custom, a shining star of the Art Deco era, embodied a design philosophy that aimed to fuse elegance and practicality. Studebaker, known for its innovative spirit, sought to create a car that would stand out in a crowded market, attracting discerning buyers with its distinctive aesthetics.
Key Design Elements
The 1939 Studebaker Custom featured several key design elements that differentiated it from other Studebaker models. The most notable of these was the “sharknose” grille, a distinctive feature that gave the car its unique personality. The grille, inspired by the sleek lines of a shark, was a bold statement of modernity and streamlined elegance.
The Custom’s sleek body lines, characterized by flowing curves and a graceful profile, were a departure from the more boxy designs prevalent at the time. The car’s low-slung silhouette, achieved through a lowered chassis and a raked windshield, contributed to its sporty and aerodynamic appearance.
The use of chrome accents, particularly on the grille, bumpers, and window trim, further enhanced the car’s luxurious appeal and highlighted its sophisticated design.
Comparison with Contemporary Vehicles
Compared to its contemporaries, the 1939 Studebaker Custom stood out with its distinctive styling. While many cars of the era featured more traditional designs with boxy shapes and ornate details, the Custom embraced a more modern and streamlined approach. Cars like the Ford Deluxe and Chevrolet Master Deluxe, though popular in their time, lacked the sleek elegance and aerodynamic styling that characterized the Studebaker Custom.
The Custom’s design, with its emphasis on flowing lines and a low profile, foreshadowed the automotive trends that would emerge in the following decades.
Use of Chrome and Decorative Features
Chrome played a pivotal role in enhancing the 1939 Studebaker Custom’s visual appeal. The chrome grille, a signature element of the car’s design, added a touch of luxury and sophistication. Chrome accents were also used on the bumpers, window trim, and other exterior details, adding a gleaming contrast to the car’s bodywork.
These decorative features served to accentuate the car’s curves and highlight its sleek lines. The 1939 Studebaker Custom’s interior was also adorned with chrome accents, including the dashboard, door handles, and other interior trim elements. These decorative touches further enhanced the car’s luxurious ambiance.
Available Body Styles
The 1939 Studebaker Custom was available in a variety of body styles, offering buyers a choice that suited their needs and preferences. The most popular body styles included:* Coupe:The coupe was a two-door model that offered a sporty and elegant design.
Sedan
The sedan, a four-door model, provided ample space for passengers and luggage.
Convertible
The convertible offered an open-air driving experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more luxurious and stylish ride.
Business Coupe
The business coupe was a two-door model designed for commercial use, offering a spacious interior and a practical design.
Body Styles and Key Features
| Body Style | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Coupe | Two doors, sporty and elegant design |
| Sedan | Four doors, ample space for passengers and luggage |
| Convertible | Open-air driving experience, luxurious and stylish |
| Business Coupe | Two doors, designed for commercial use, spacious interior, practical design |
Technical Specifications
The 1939 Studebaker Custom, despite its elegant exterior, housed robust mechanical components that delivered reliable performance. Let’s delve into the technical details that made this car a capable and enjoyable machine to drive.
Engine Options
The 1939 Studebaker Custom offered a selection of two powerful engines, catering to different driving preferences and needs.
- The 92-horsepower, 170-cubic-inch six-cylinder enginewas the standard option. This engine provided a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for everyday driving. It was known for its smooth operation and reliability.
- The optional 101-horsepower, 217-cubic-inch six-cylinder engineoffered a significant power boost, making it more suitable for spirited driving. This engine provided a more robust performance and was a popular choice for those seeking a more powerful driving experience.
Performance Characteristics
The 1939 Studebaker Custom’s performance was directly influenced by the chosen engine.
- The standard 170-cubic-inch engine provided a comfortable and fuel-efficient driving experience, making it ideal for daily commutes and leisurely drives.
- The larger 217-cubic-inch engine, with its additional horsepower, offered a more spirited driving experience, capable of tackling inclines and highways with ease. It provided a more satisfying driving experience for those seeking more power and responsiveness.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 1939 Studebaker Custom was equipped with a three-speed manual transmission, which was a common configuration for cars of that era. This transmission, paired with the robust engine options, provided a smooth and reliable driving experience.
Suspension and Braking Systems
The 1939 Studebaker Custom featured a robust suspension system designed for comfort and stability.
- Independent front suspensionwith coil springs and shock absorbers provided a comfortable ride and good handling.
- A solid rear axlewith leaf springs and shock absorbers offered a stable ride, even on rough roads.
The braking system employed hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels, providing reliable stopping power.
Technical Specifications Summary
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 170-cubic-inch six-cylinder (92 hp) or 217-cubic-inch six-cylinder (101 hp) |
| Transmission | Three-speed manual |
| Suspension | Independent front suspension with coil springs and shock absorbers, solid rear axle with leaf springs and shock absorbers |
| Brakes | Hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels |
Interior and Features
Step inside the 1939 Studebaker Custom, and you’ll be greeted by an interior that reflects the era’s penchant for both elegance and practicality. The car’s interior design was a testament to Studebaker’s commitment to providing a comfortable and stylish experience for its passengers.
Interior Design and Materials
The 1939 Studebaker Custom’s interior was a harmonious blend of comfort and style. The use of high-quality materials, like plush broadcloth upholstery, was a hallmark of the era. The dashboard was crafted with attention to detail, featuring a stylish instrument panel that housed gauges for speed, fuel level, and other vital information.
The steering wheel, with its classic design, provided a comfortable grip.
Interior Color Options and Trim Levels
Studebaker offered a range of interior color options to suit the tastes of its customers. The standard interior color was a rich brown, but buyers could also opt for other hues, including gray and green. The Custom trim level featured additional embellishments, such as woodgrain accents on the dashboard and door panels, adding a touch of luxury to the cabin.
Standard and Optional Features
The 1939 Studebaker Custom came equipped with a range of standard features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. These included:
- A spacious and comfortable interior with plush seating.
- A heater to keep passengers warm during colder months.
- A radio for entertainment.
- A rearview mirror for added safety.
Optional features allowed customers to personalize their Custom further. These included:
- A power top for the convertible models.
- A rear window defroster for added convenience in cold weather.
- A variety of accessories, such as luggage racks and vanity mirrors.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Studebaker prioritized comfort and convenience in the 1939 Custom. The car’s spacious interior, with its plush seating and ample legroom, ensured a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. The well-designed dashboard, with its easy-to-read gauges, made driving a pleasurable experience.
The availability of optional features like a heater and rear window defroster further enhanced the car’s comfort and practicality.
Interior Features by Trim Level
| Feature | Standard | Custom |
|---|---|---|
| Upholstery | Broadcloth | Broadcloth with leather accents |
| Dashboard | Steel with painted accents | Woodgrain accents |
| Steering Wheel | Standard design | Custom-designed |
| Heater | Standard | Standard |
| Radio | Standard | Standard |
| Rearview Mirror | Standard | Standard |
Production and Sales
The 1939 Studebaker Custom, a shining example of automotive design and engineering, was produced in substantial numbers, reflecting its popularity among discerning buyers of the era. The car’s success was a testament to Studebaker’s commitment to quality, style, and innovation.
Production Volume
The 1939 Studebaker Custom was produced in a significant volume, reflecting its popularity among discerning buyers of the era. The exact production figures are not readily available, but it is estimated that thousands of units were manufactured during the model year.
This production volume reflects the car’s success and the public’s appreciation for its distinctive styling, advanced features, and overall quality.
The 1939 Studebaker Custom was a head-turner, a classic example of American automotive design from a bygone era. It embodied the elegance and craftsmanship that made vintage cars so sought after today. With its flowing lines and chrome accents, the 1939 Studebaker Custom was a statement of style and sophistication, a timeless reminder of a golden age in automotive history.
Pricing
The 1939 Studebaker Custom was priced competitively for its class, offering a compelling value proposition to buyers. While precise pricing details for each trim level are not readily available, it is known that the Custom was positioned as a mid-range offering within the Studebaker lineup.
The 1939 Studebaker Custom’s pricing strategy aimed to attract a wide range of buyers, including those seeking a stylish and well-equipped car without breaking the bank. The car’s price point, combined with its attractive design and features, contributed to its overall success.
Marketing and Advertising Campaigns
Studebaker employed a multifaceted marketing and advertising campaign to promote the 1939 Custom, emphasizing its distinctive design, advanced features, and overall value. The company’s marketing efforts included print advertising in popular magazines and newspapers, as well as radio commercials. Studebaker’s advertising campaigns highlighted the Custom’s sleek lines, luxurious interior, and powerful engine.
The company also emphasized the car’s affordability, positioning it as a desirable option for discerning buyers on a budget.
Notable Events and Milestones
The 1939 Studebaker Custom was involved in several notable events and milestones that further solidified its place in automotive history. These events include:
- Participation in Automobile Shows: The 1939 Studebaker Custom was prominently displayed at several prestigious automobile shows, including the New York Auto Show and the Chicago Auto Show. These appearances helped generate significant buzz for the car and showcase its innovative design and engineering.
- Critical Acclaim: The 1939 Studebaker Custom received widespread critical acclaim for its distinctive styling, luxurious interior, and overall performance. Automotive publications praised the car’s sleek lines, advanced features, and overall value, further enhancing its reputation among discerning buyers.
- Commercial Success: The 1939 Studebaker Custom achieved commercial success, selling in significant numbers throughout its production run. The car’s popularity reflected its ability to meet the needs and desires of a wide range of buyers, establishing it as a strong contender in the mid-range market segment.
Legacy and Significance
The 1939 Studebaker Custom, a design masterpiece of its time, left an indelible mark on the automotive industry and cemented Studebaker’s position as a leader in style and innovation. Its legacy extends beyond its sleek lines and advanced engineering, influencing design trends and captivating car enthusiasts for generations.
Impact on the Automotive Industry
The 1939 Studebaker Custom’s influence on the automotive industry was significant, pushing boundaries in design and engineering. Its streamlined body, inspired by the art deco movement, was a departure from the boxy, utilitarian designs of the time. This aerodynamic approach, coupled with its advanced independent front suspension, set a new standard for performance and handling, influencing other manufacturers to adopt similar features.
Comparison with Other Studebaker Models
The 1939 Custom stood out amongst its Studebaker contemporaries, showcasing a distinct design philosophy. While other models like the Champion and Commander offered reliable transportation, the Custom focused on elegance and performance. Its longer wheelbase, wider stance, and distinctive grille distinguished it as a luxury offering, appealing to discerning buyers seeking a sophisticated driving experience.
Contribution to Studebaker’s Reputation
The 1939 Studebaker Custom played a crucial role in re-establishing Studebaker’s reputation as a manufacturer of stylish and innovative automobiles. Its success helped the company emerge from a period of financial struggles and solidified its place as a prominent player in the American automotive market.
The 1939 Studebaker Custom, with its sleek lines and powerful engine, was a true American classic. While it was a symbol of elegance and performance, the British were busy crafting their own automotive legends. The 1975 MG MGB, a classic British sports car , offered a different kind of driving experience, one that was all about agility and fun.
Both the Studebaker and the MGB represent distinct eras in automotive history, each captivating drivers with their unique charms.
The Custom’s popularity further fueled Studebaker’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship, attracting a loyal customer base.
Anecdotes and Stories from Owners and Enthusiasts
The 1939 Studebaker Custom continues to captivate car enthusiasts today. Owners and collectors often share stories about the car’s unique driving experience, its timeless design, and the sense of pride they feel owning a piece of automotive history. These narratives highlight the car’s enduring appeal and the strong community that has grown around it.
Current Collector Value and Desirability, 1939 Studebaker Custom
The 1939 Studebaker Custom is highly sought after by collectors, making it a valuable investment. Its rarity, historical significance, and timeless design contribute to its desirability. Restored examples command significant prices at auctions and private sales, reflecting the car’s enduring appeal and its status as a classic American automobile.
The 1939 Studebaker Custom, with its sleek lines and Art Deco styling, was a true icon of its time. It embodied the spirit of American automotive design, much like the 1999 Aston Martin V8: A British Icon Reborn captured the essence of British craftsmanship.
Both cars, despite their different origins, shared a timeless appeal, proving that classic design transcends eras and continues to inspire generations of car enthusiasts.
Illustrations
The 1939 Studebaker Custom was a striking example of Art Deco styling, boasting a unique blend of curves and sharp lines that captured the spirit of the era. Its exterior design was a departure from the more conservative designs of the past, showcasing a bold and innovative approach to automotive aesthetics.
The interior, similarly, reflected the era’s penchant for luxury and comfort, featuring premium materials and an emphasis on functionality.
Exterior Design
The 1939 Studebaker Custom’s exterior design was characterized by its sleek and aerodynamic profile. Its long, flowing lines were accentuated by a prominent chrome grille that extended horizontally across the front of the car. The grille featured a series of vertical bars that were reminiscent of the Art Deco style, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
The headlights were integrated into the fenders, giving the car a streamlined appearance. The bodywork was also characterized by its use of curves and sharp angles, creating a visually dynamic and eye-catching design.The car’s distinctive “shark nose” hood was a signature feature of the 1939 Studebaker Custom.
This unique design element contributed to the car’s aerodynamic efficiency and also gave it a distinctive and memorable appearance. The hood was adorned with a prominent Studebaker emblem, further enhancing the car’s visual appeal.
Interior Design
The interior of the 1939 Studebaker Custom was a testament to the era’s focus on luxury and comfort. The dashboard featured a combination of chrome and wood trim, creating a sophisticated and elegant look. The instrument panel was easy to read and featured a variety of gauges that provided the driver with essential information.
The upholstery was available in a range of high-quality materials, including leather and cloth. The seats were generously padded and offered a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. The interior was also well-appointed with a variety of features, such as a heater, radio, and cigarette lighter.
Color Options and Trim Levels
The 1939 Studebaker Custom was available in a variety of colors, including black, blue, green, red, and white. Customers could also choose from a range of trim levels, which included standard, deluxe, and custom. The deluxe and custom trim levels offered additional features, such as leather upholstery, chrome accents, and power windows.
Final Wrap-Up
The 1939 Studebaker Custom continues to captivate car enthusiasts today, a testament to its timeless appeal. Its sleek design, powerful engine, and luxurious interior make it a true classic, and its legacy as a symbol of American automotive excellence lives on.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual admirer, the 1939 Studebaker Custom is a car that will leave a lasting impression. So, take a step back in time and experience the allure of this American icon. You won’t be disappointed.
