Image of 1936 Dodge Series D2, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

A Journey Back to the Art Deco Era: The 1936 Dodge Series D2

With its gleaming chrome and streamlined form, the 1936 Dodge Series D2 is a rolling testament to the Art Deco movement that swept through industrial design in the early 20th century. Born from the assembly lines of the Dodge Brothers Company, which had been acquired by Chrysler in 1928, this classic vehicle emerged during an era of economic recovery following the Great Depression. The D2 model was not just a mode of transportation; it was a symbol of hope and progress. A particularly intriguing fact about this car is that it was one of the first to feature a push-button starter, a novelty at the time that has since become standard in modern vehicles.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1936 Dodge Series D2 boasted a bold, yet elegant design characterized by its rounded fenders, a raked windshield, and a grille that exuded confidence. The car's silhouette was both aerodynamic and sophisticated, capturing the essence of speed without sacrificing style. Inside, passengers were treated to an interior that prioritized comfort with high-quality fabrics and an attention to detail that was second to none during that period. The technological advancements were notable for its time, including safety glass and hydraulic brakes.

Color options for the D2 ranged from subdued hues to more vibrant tones, with choices like Gunmetal Grey and Balmoral Green being popular among buyers. The vehicle came in various body styles including sedans, coupes, convertibles, and even rumble-seat models. However, it was the rumble-seat coupe with its intimate open-air compartment that became one of the most iconic and sought-after variants.

Historical Significance

The 1936 Dodge Series D2 set itself apart with features such as an all-steel body construction at a time when wood framing was still common. Its impact on automotive design was significant, pushing competitors towards more integrated and streamlined designs. The D2's lasting influence can be seen in subsequent models across various manufacturers who adopted similar styling cues and technological improvements.

Performance and Handling

The Series D2's performance was respectable for its era, with a top speed that could reach up to 75 mph—a commendable figure in 1936. Its acceleration from 0-60 mph was not recorded as commonly as it is today but would have been measured in double-digit seconds. On the road, drivers appreciated its sturdy handling which instilled confidence despite the lack of power steering. The driving experience was immersive; from the throaty hum of its inline-six engine to the tactile feedback through its three-speed manual transmission.

Ownership Experience

The 1936 Dodge Series D2 served various roles from reliable daily transportation to an admired showpiece at vintage car rallies. Its straightforward mechanical design made maintenance relatively easy for those with basic mechanical knowledge. However, sourcing parts today can be a challenge given its age.

Fun Facts

This classic has graced both private collections and silver screens alike. While not known for breaking speed records, it has certainly set records for style and elegance in automotive history. Criticisms were few but did include a desire for more power—a common wish for vehicles of this period.

Collector's Information

The current value range for a well-preserved or expertly restored 1936 Dodge Series D2 can vary widely but typically falls between $20,000 to $50,000 depending on condition and originality. Production numbers were substantial for their time; however, surviving examples are considerably rarer today. As with many pre-war classics, values have generally appreciated over time as these vehicles become scarcer and more desirable among collectors.

Conclusion

The 1936 Dodge Series D2 stands as a proud representative of automotive history—a beacon of innovation during a transformative period in America's story. It is more than just a classic car; it is a piece of art on wheels that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world.

1936 Dodge Series D2 Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 57Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 5" wide X 3-5/8" long, with 1-3/16" long inner slot. Pair

1936 Dodge Series D2 Door Jamb Bumper. Perfect reproduction-DB 36Door Jamb Bumper. Perfect reproduction. 1-1/16" high X 1-1/4" wide X 7/16" thick. Each

1936 Dodge Series D2 Hood Corners. Fits flat corners-HC 19Hood Corners. Fits flat corners. 80° angle, 1/4" to 3/8" corner radius. 1-3/8" wide. Pair

1936 Dodge Series D2 Windshield and Rear Window Seal. Sold by the foot-LP 30-AWindshield and Rear Window Seal. Sold by the foot

1936 Dodge Series D2 Swing-Out & Crank-Out Windshield Seal. Sold by the foot-LP 97Swing-Out & Crank-Out Windshield Seal. Sold by the foot

1936 Dodge Series D2 Headlight Pads. Thick mounting base-MB 650Headlight Pads. Thick mounting base. 5-3/8" Long X 3-7/16" Wide. Pair

1936 Dodge Series D2 Tail-light Pads. 2-1/4" wide X 5-1/4" long. Pair-MP 644Tail-light Pads. 2-1/4" wide X 5-1/4" long. Pair

1936 Dodge Series D2 Trunk Hinge Pads. 1-1/2" wide X 7-7/8" long. Set of 4-MP 645Trunk Hinge Pads. 1-1/2" wide X 7-7/8" long. Set of 4

1936 Dodge Series D2 Horn Vent Pad. 5-3/8" wide X 16-3/4" long. Each-MP 646Horn Vent Pad. 5-3/8" wide X 16-3/4" long. Each

1936 Dodge Series D2 Headlight Base to Fender Pads. 4" wide X 7-1/4" long-MP 651Headlight Base to Fender Pads. 4" wide X 7-1/4" long. Pair R&L

1936 Dodge Series D2 Tail-light Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 6-1/2" long-MP 658Tail-light Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 6-1/2" long. For Coupe and Convertible. Pair

1936 Dodge Series D2 Cowl Vent Seal. Made of molded sponge-RP 100-LCowl Vent Seal. Made of molded sponge. 3-3/4" wide at side X 15-1/3" long X 3/8" thick. Each

1936 Dodge Series D2 Clutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair-RP 31-JClutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair

1936 Dodge Series D2 Door Check Rubber Cushion. Each-RP 40-DDoor Check Rubber Cushion. Each

1936 Dodge Series D2 Accelerator Rod Grommet-SM 43-BAccelerator Rod Grommet. For accelerator rod through floorboard. Each

1936 Dodge Series D2 Step Plate Pad. Rubber face only. 4-1/4" O.D. Each-SP 18Step Plate Pad. Rubber face only. 4-1/4" O.D. Each