1934 Studebaker President

Studebaker was founded in 1852 and incorporated in 1868 as the Studebaker Brothers Manufacturing Company. The early years were spent building buggies, wagons, harnesses, and carriages. They entered the automotive business in 1902 with electric vehicles and in 1904 with gasoline vehicles, under the name 'Studebaker Automobile Company.' Over the years, Studebaker would be affiliated with various marques. In 1928, Studebaker gained control of the Pierce-Arrow company and their association lasted for five years, ending in 1934. During that time, both engineering departments continued to function as separate entities, with both companies gaining moderate benefits from the union. Pierce-Arrow gained a dealer network and their cars were sold through Studebaker dealerships. It later became apparent the Pierce-Arrow union was a mistake. Company president Albert Erskine began negotiating with White, however slow sales due to the Great Depression for both the Studebaker and Erskine lines, failure of Rockne in the marketplace (Studebaker produced the Rockne from 1932 through 1933), and heavy financial losses sent Studebaker into receivership in 1933. Harold Vance and Paul Hoffman were called in to begin re-organizing the company midway through 1933, following Albert Erskine's suicide. The Pierce-Arrow stock was sold-off for a million dollars and the model line-up was trimmed down.

The 1934 Studebakers became more streamlined. The top-of-the-line President Eight models were slightly smaller in wheelbase and size and lighter than the prior 1933 version. It was given a vee-shaped radiator grille and bumpers. Power was from an L-head, nine main bearings, 250 cubic-inch engine with 110 horsepower, and breathing through a Stromberg carburetor. The engine was mated to a three-speed synchromesh transmission with overdrive, and stopping power was provided by four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Body styles included a convertible and various coupes and sedans.

by Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2019