1937 DICTATOR

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The STUDEBACKER DICTATOR 1937 was a popular car model introduced by the Studebaker Corporation in 1936. It was the last car to bear the Dictator name, as Studebaker renamed it the Commander in 1938. The Dictator was designed for practicality and durability with an attractive body style, it was aimed at middle-class consumers.

The Dictator was powered by an L-head six-cylinder engine, producing 87 horsepower at 3,600 rpm. This engine had a 218.8 cubic inch displacement with a bore and stroke of 3.25 x 4.375 inches. It was equipped with a Stromberg carburettor, Bosch distributor, and a water pump. The engine was coupled with a 3-speed manual transmission on the floor and had a rear-wheel drive.

The Dictator featured a 114-inch wheelbase and an overall length of 188.5 inches. It had a width of 70.5 inches and a height of 63 inches. The car had a curb weight of approximately 3,400 pounds, with a fuel tank capacity of 17 gallons. The Dictator had a four-wheel hydraulic brake system, which was advanced for its time.

The exterior of the Dictator is sleek and stylish. It had a chrome-plated radiator shell and grille, with bullet-shaped headlights. It had running boards, and the fenders were skirted. The body was a four-door sedan with a distinctively curvaceous roofline. The car's aerodynamic design reduced wind resistance and gave it a modern look.

The interior of the Dictator was spacious and comfortable, with enough legroom for the passengers in the rear seats. The car featured a standard hydraulic shock absorber that offered a tranquil ride. The dashboard was robust and well-organized with an array of gauges and controls. The Dictator's steering wheel was a tilt-type that could be adjusted to suit the driver's preferences.

The Dictator also featured a powerful electrical system, which included a 35-amp generator and a six-volt battery. The lighting system includes dual headlamps, taillights, and a dome light, which was quite unusual in cars then.

In terms of safety, the Dictator was equipped with advanced features for the time. It had a latching, pop-out windshield, and recessed door handles that prevented anyone from accidentally falling out of the car while in motion.

In conclusion, the STUDEBACKER DICTATOR 1937 was a reliable, practical, and technologically advanced car that was ahead of its time. The car was designed for durability and fuel efficiency, and it was a favourite among middle-class consumers. The distinctive, curvaceous design of the body was ahead of its time, and the aerodynamic design offered a smooth ride. The powerful engine, advanced electrical system, and safety features made it an excellent choice for a family car.

Milestones

- Introduction of the Studebaker Dictator model in 1937 - Produced in both six-cylinder and eight-cylinder engine options - Sleek exterior design featuring a longer, lower hood and fenders - Equipped with modern amenities for the time, such as hydraulic brakes and a synchronized transmission - Offered in a range of body styles, including two-door sedans and coupes, four-door sedans and convertibles - Replaced the Studebaker President model as the brand's mid-range offering - Sales were initially slow due to the economic depression, but increased as the country's financial situation improved - Production of the Dictator ceased in 1939 as Studebaker shifted its focus to military production during World War II.

Technical

- Body style: Four-door sedan - Engine: 3.7L (225 cu in) L-head straight-six engine - Transmission: 3-speed manual - Horsepower: 85 HP - Torque: 166 lb-ft - Wheelbase: 113 inches - Length: 190.3 inches - Width: 69.6 inches - Height: 65 inches - Curb weight: 3,150 pounds - Fuel capacity: 14 gallons - Suspension: Front and rear leaf springs - Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes - Tires: 6.50 x 16 inch tires - Features: Dual sun visors, dome light, cigarette lighter, glove compartment, clock, horn button, and ashtray. - Production: 5,273 units produced in 1937.