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Art Deco Original: 1937 Studebaker Dictator

Update 4/17/2018 – We accidentally doubled up on this one. Since Brian and Todd both did such great jobs writing it up, we decided to publish both of their write-ups. So if you’d like to see Todd’s take on this Studebaker, you can read his post here.

After spending several years in a private collection, this gorgeous ’37 Studebaker is looking for a new home. Offering sensational Art Deco appeal, this coupe is really a wonderful piece of art on wheels. Mostly original, this Dictator is a grand start to a restoration project. Certainly a rare find, this Stude’ is currently bid up to $5,700. Take a look at this beauty here on eBay out of Annandale, Minnesota.

The flat head 6 cylinder is not in running condition, but if the seller was capable enough to amass a collection, I would hope that he would have oiled the cylinders. Unfortunately there is a missing spark plug on the last cylinder so perhaps the engine is seized? I am certain that the brake system and fuel system will need attention or a complete overhaul, but there are newer wheels and tires on the car so I would guess that it is a roller.

Doubling as a mouse motel, the front bench is a bit chewed up to say the least. Also it appears that the doors panels are missing, as is the door hardware such as windows cranks, door pulls, and pull handles. The dash and banjo steering wheel appear in nice shape, and the headliner is still in place even around the wildly shaped rear window. The floors as a whole appear solid, but there does appear to be a few rusty spots, and perhaps even a few holes on the passenger floor, unless it is an illusion and we are looking at small pieces of cotton padding.

The Art Deco era produced some lovely cars, but the Studebaker Dictator is high on my list of Deco favorites. The rear window is unlike any other, and the wonderful coupe lines that merge into the trunk are simply pleasing. Overall the body is very reasonable but there are some condition issues as there would be with any un-restored 81 year old car. The back end has been bumped in the past, and passenger front fender is a little rough appearing to have been bent up and worked back with someone’s bare hands. Both front fenders have their minor dents and dings, but this Stude’ has lovely running boards, and rockers. Certainly worthy of a restoration, this Dictator needs to be put into good hands. What is one of your favorite Art Deco cars?

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