Image of 1935 Studebaker Commander, sourced from www.goodingco.com , Image Link.

1935 Studebaker Commander: A Testament to Pre-War Craftsmanship

The 1935 Studebaker Commander stands as a beacon of pre-war automotive excellence, a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its era. Born from the creative minds at the Studebaker Corporation in South Bend, Indiana, this vehicle emerged during a time of economic recovery and technological advancement. Notably, it was during this period that Studebaker, one of the oldest manufacturers of wheeled vehicles, managed to produce a car that would become an icon of its time. A unique fact about the Commander is that it was part of the first lineup to feature Studebaker's revolutionary "Planar" independent front-wheel suspension system, setting a new standard for ride comfort and handling.

Design and Innovation

The 1935 Studebaker Commander's exterior styling was a harmonious blend of artistry and aerodynamics. Its sweeping lines and pontoon fenders exuded elegance, while the bold, waterfall grille provided a distinctive front fascia that commanded attention. Inside, passengers were greeted with an interior that showcased high-quality fabrics and an attention to detail that was second to none for its class. Luxurious touches included wood-grain accents and comfortable seating that made every journey a pleasure. Technological features were ahead of their time, with the aforementioned "Planar" suspension system leading the charge. The Commander came in an array of color options, with rich hues like Gendarme Blue and Gunmetal Grey being among the popular choices. Body styles ranged from sedans to coupes, with the four-door sedan being particularly sought after for its balance of style and practicality.

Historical Significance

The 1935 Studebaker Commander made an indelible mark on automotive history through its design and technological advancements. It stood out among contemporaries by offering luxury and performance at a price point that was accessible to many Americans. Its lasting influence can be seen in how it helped shape consumer expectations for what a mid-priced car could offer in terms of features and comfort.

Performance and Handling

Underneath the hood, the Commander boasted a robust 6-cylinder engine that delivered smooth performance with enough power to reach commendable top speeds for its time. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved with grace rather than haste, reflecting the vehicle's poised nature. On various driving conditions, from bumpy rural roads to newly paved highways, the Commander's advanced suspension system provided a ride quality that was unrivaled by most contemporaries. Driving this classic was an immersive experience; the engine's hum was music to any car enthusiast's ears, while the solid yet responsive steering communicated every nuance of the road directly to the driver's hands.

Ownership Experience

The 1935 Studebaker Commander served multiple roles ranging from a reliable daily driver to a prestigious show car. Its sturdy construction meant maintenance was straightforward for those familiar with pre-war technology, though finding parts today can be a treasure hunt in itself.

Fun Facts

Did you know? Some Commanders found their way into government fleets and may have even chauffeured notable political figures of their time. While not known for breaking speed records, they did set benchmarks for reliability and comfort. Criticisms were few but did include remarks on fuel consumption—a small price to pay for such luxury during those years.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors value the 1935 Studebaker Commander not only for its beauty but also for its rarity. With production numbers not as high as some mass-produced models of its time (estimates suggest several thousand units), finding one in good condition can be quite rare. Values range significantly based on condition but expect well-maintained examples to fetch anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000 or more at auction. Price trends have shown appreciation over time as enthusiasts seek out these pre-war gems for their collections.

Conclusion

The 1935 Studebaker Commander is more than just an old car; it's a piece of history that encapsulates the spirit of innovation and luxury in an age where both were hard-won achievements. As we look back on this remarkable vehicle, we are reminded not only of how far we've come but also of the timeless allure that classic cars like this hold for collectors and admirers alike.

1935 Studebaker Commander Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each-AP 22Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each

1935 Studebaker Commander Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 45Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 2-3/4" wide X 4-1/8" long, with 1-5/8" long inner slot. Pair

1935 Studebaker Commander Hood Corners. Original design. 2-3/4" wide. Pair-HC 18Hood Corners. Original design. 2-3/4" wide. Pair

1935 Studebaker Commander Headlight Pads. 4-1/4" wide X 5-5/8" long. Pair-MP 963Headlight Pads. 4-1/4" wide X 5-5/8" long. Pair

1935 Studebaker Commander Tail-light Pads. 3-7/8" wide X 9-1/2" long. Pair-MP 964Tail-light Pads. 3-7/8" wide X 9-1/2" long. Pair

1935 Studebaker Commander Headlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D-SM 13-AHeadlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D. Each