Image of 1937 Studebaker President, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

1937 Studebaker President: A Pinnacle of Pre-War Automotive Excellence

The 1937 Studebaker President stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of an era when cars were more than mere transportation; they were statements of style and technological ambition. Born from the Studebaker Corporation, an Indiana-based manufacturer with a storied legacy dating back to the days of horse-drawn wagons, the President model was the company's luxury flagship. In the throes of the Great Depression, this vehicle emerged as a beacon of hope and progress, boasting advanced features that set it apart from its contemporaries. One such notable moment in its history was its pioneering use of hill-holder technology, a feature designed to prevent the car from rolling backwards on an incline—a marvel at the time.

Design and Innovation

The 1937 Studebaker President's exterior styling was a harmonious blend of aerodynamic sleekness and bold, art deco accents. Its sweeping lines and pontoon fenders exuded motion even at a standstill, while the prominent grille and commanding hood ornament signaled prestige. Inside, passengers were enveloped in an opulent environment where woodgrain accents met plush fabrics or optional leather upholstery. The dashboard was an exercise in functional elegance, with gauges artfully integrated into a design that was both intuitive and aesthetically pleasing.

Technologically, the President was ahead of its time, featuring innovations such as an automatic choke and built-in defroster vents. Color options ranged from stately blacks and blues to more adventurous hues like Studebaker's Tunis Blue or Grecian Olive, reflecting the personalization preferences of its affluent clientele. Body styles varied, with options including sedans, coupes, and roadsters; however, it was the four-door sedan that captured hearts with its balanced proportions and family-friendly appeal.

Historical Significance

The Studebaker President didn't just transport people; it transported ideas. It influenced automotive design with its emphasis on streamlining and set benchmarks for luxury features within reach of middle-class America. Its lasting influence can be seen in post-war designs that echoed its blend of form and function.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior lay a robust 250 cubic-inch straight-eight engine that propelled the President to impressive speeds for its time. While top speed figures are subject to historical interpretation, it was known to cruise comfortably at highway speeds uncommon in many cars of the era. The President's acceleration was brisk, with reports suggesting a 0-60 mph capability that could rival some sports cars of later decades.

Handling was refined for a vehicle of its size, with independent front suspension smoothing out road imperfections and providing stability through corners. Drivers often remarked on the quiet purr of the engine and the solid yet comfortable ride quality—a true luxury cruiser built for America's burgeoning roadways.

Ownership Experience

The 1937 Studebaker President served various roles from daily driver to show-stopping classic at concours events. Maintenance required a hands-on approach typical of pre-war cars but was facilitated by Studebaker's commitment to build quality. Reliability was commendable for its time, though modern owners should expect regular upkeep as part of the classic car experience.

Fun Facts

This illustrious model has graced many prestigious collections and has been linked to high-profile figures throughout history. While not known for breaking speed records, it did set standards for what a luxury car could offer at a reasonable price point. Criticisms were few but often pointed towards its fuel consumption—a trade-off for its performance prowess.

Collector's Information

The current value range for a well-preserved 1937 Studebaker President can vary greatly depending on condition, provenance, and originality. Estimates suggest that several thousand units were produced across all body styles; however exact numbers remain elusive due to historical record discrepancies. As for appreciation potential, well-maintained examples have seen steady increases in value over time with prime specimens fetching significant sums northward of $50,000 in today's collector market.

Conclusion

The 1937 Studebaker President is more than just another classic car—it is a rolling piece of history that encapsulates the spirit of innovation and luxury from an era gone by. Its blend of style, performance, and technological advancement make it a cherished collectible that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world.

1937 Studebaker President Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each-AP 22Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each

1937 Studebaker President 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

1937 Studebaker President Gas Filler Grommet. 1-3/4" I.D., 4" oblong length. Each-GF 6Gas Filler Grommet. 1-3/4" I.D., 4" oblong length. Each

1937 Studebaker President Hood Corners. Original design. 2-3/4" wide. Pair-HC 18Hood Corners. Original design. 2-3/4" wide. Pair

1937 Studebaker President Headlight Pads. 3-3/4" wide X 8-1/2" long. Pair-MP 968Headlight Pads. 3-3/4" wide X 8-1/2" long. Pair

1937 Studebaker President Tail-light Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 8-1/16" long. Pair-MP 971Tail-light Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 8-1/16" long. Pair

1937 Studebaker President Steering Column Grommet. For 4-speed models. Each-SC 24Steering Column Grommet. For 4-speed models. Each

1937 Studebaker President Steering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each-SC 24-ASteering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each

1937 Studebaker President 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

1937 Studebaker President Flexible sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 8-72Flexible sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. Used on inner and outer beltlines. Also forms easily for use with sliding quarter windows. 72 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned into two equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1937 Studebaker President Rear Vent Window Seals, for Sedans-WR 2300-RRear Vent Window Seals, for Sedans. Slight modification required for some models. Overall length is 44". Some models use longer seal, for these use extension piece WREX 2300-R. Pair R&L