The 1941 Studebaker Commander, with its captivating Art Deco styling, marks a significant moment in automotive history. This model represents the culmination of Studebaker’s foray into premium-priced, full-sized vehicles before shifting focus to the smaller Champion.
Just two years prior, the Studebaker Champion had taken the market by storm, offering consumers a smaller and more affordable alternative to the Big Three’s offerings. This success dramatically shifted the company’s direction, leading them away from larger, more luxurious models like the Commander.
A Tale of Two Studebakers: Champion vs. Commander
The 1939 Studebaker Champion’s arrival marked a turning point for the company. Considerably smaller and lighter than its full-sized siblings, the Champion undercut the competition in both size and price. This strategic move paid off, as the Champion quickly became a sales success, establishing Studebaker as the top-selling independent brand in 1941.
This success story, however, overshadowed the stylish sophistication of the larger Studebaker models. In 1941, the year before America’s entry into World War II, the Champion outsold both the mid-level Commander and the top-tier President. While the Champion resonated with the masses, it was the Commander and President that showcased Studebaker’s design prowess.
Raymond Loewy’s Design Triumph: The 1941 Studebaker
The 1941 Studebaker models, particularly the Commander, were visual delights. Designed by the renowned Raymond Loewy’s firm, these cars exuded an air of streamlined elegance. Art Deco details, such as the distinctive biplane front bumper and the sweeping side spear, set them apart from the competition.
Let’s delve into the specifics of what made the 1941 Commander so visually appealing:
A Symphony of Curves and Lines:
- Waterfall Grille: The cascading twin grilles, a hallmark of Art Deco design, added a touch of elegance and sophistication.
- Dynamic Sweepspear: The side spear, a design element running horizontally along the car’s body, gradually thickened towards the front, creating a sense of motion even when the car was standing still.
- Unified Design Language: The prominent vertical logo on the trunk lid was mirrored in the shape of the taillights and the downward-pointing red stripes on the rear bumper, demonstrating a cohesive design language.
The Controversial Rear Fender Bulge:
One of the most debated design features of the 1941 Commander was the rounded bulge surrounding the rear wheels. This unique element, a departure from the conventional flat or subtly curved fenders of the time, added visual interest and sparked conversations amongst automotive enthusiasts.
Beyond the Six-Window Sedan: Exploring Body Styles
While our focus has been on the six-window sedan, it’s essential to acknowledge the other body styles offered for the 1941 Commander. One standout option was the four-window sedan. According to renowned automotive journalist, J.P. Cavanaugh, the four-window sedan possessed a sleekness reminiscent of the Cadillac Sixty Special, a car known for its sophisticated design.
A Strategic Shift: The Rise of the Compact
The 1941 Studebaker Commander, while a design triumph, marked the end of an era for the company. The overwhelming success of the Champion solidified its position as the future of Studebaker. After World War II, the company shifted its entire lineup to the Champion’s more compact platform.
This strategic decision yielded positive financial results in the short term. Studebaker, focusing on a more affordable and fuel-efficient segment, consistently outsold its independent competitors through 1953.
However, this strategy wasn’t without its drawbacks. Some automotive historians, such as Cavanaugh, argue that Studebaker’s focus on the compact segment ultimately limited its growth potential. They posit that the company might have thrived had it continued to develop larger, more luxurious vehicles capable of competing in higher price brackets.
Could Studebaker Have Survived in the Premium Market?
The 1950s witnessed a fierce battle for dominance in the American automotive market, particularly in the premium segment. The Big Three, with their vast resources, engaged in a rapid-fire introduction of innovations. V8 engines, sleek four-door hardtops, and lower, wider body styles became the norm.
This left independent automakers like Studebaker at a disadvantage. Keeping pace with such advancements demanded significant financial investments, a challenge for companies operating with more limited budgets.
The Eisenhower recession of the late 1950s dealt a further blow to the industry, impacting even giants like Chrysler. This economic downturn highlighted the volatility of the automotive landscape, especially for smaller players.
Some experts, such as Geeber, believe that Studebaker’s best chance for survival lay in emulating Nash’s approach. Nash, another independent automaker, found success by offering unique vehicles not found in Big Three showrooms and marketing them effectively.
The Legacy of the 1941 Studebaker Commander
The 1941 Studebaker Commander, though a fleeting presence in the market, left an indelible mark. Its stunning Art Deco design, a testament to Raymond Loewy’s genius, continues to captivate enthusiasts today.
While the Champion may have secured Studebaker’s short-term success, the 1941 Commander serves as a poignant reminder of the company’s ability to create truly beautiful and desirable automobiles. It stands as a testament to a time when independent automakers dared to challenge the status quo with their unique blend of style and innovation.
