1934 Dictator A & Special A

In 1932 Studebaker lost money on total sales of $46 million.  The largest sales loss was in the eight cylinder cars, thus for 1933 at least one of the lines had to go, hence no Dictator’s were produced in 1933.  In 1934, in a bold move, all the lines received all new body designs.  Considering the receivership, this was quite remarkable.  The Studebaker Six and Rockne are gone, so the Dictator is brought back as a six cylinder model, using the power plant from last years Rockne, with a ½ inch larger bore, developing 88 HP.  In addition to streamlining the bodies, many interior changes are made, added are ash trays, hand grips, concealed rear curtains, adjustable interior visors, and a new instrument panel design with provisions for a clock and a radio.  The steering wheel was finished to match the interior trim.  Front vent window appeared, along with outward swinging rear side windows, outward swinging windshield, and large cowl ventilators, creating an all new ventilation system.  Headlights were improved and a rather unconventional Midland Steeldraulic braking system was standard on Dictator’s.  In June, Studebaker announced a new “Year Ahead” series in all it’s lines.  The cars were slightly restyled and the Dictator’s were fitted with power-boosted brakes, of the type already used on the Commander’s and Presidents.  A new Land Cruiser Dictator was added, which featured swept back styling, with full-skirted rear fenders, and rear window treatments similar to the Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow.  The famous bird mascot introduced in 1932 is now standard on all Studebaker lines.  TCCD listed seven body styles for 1934.  Added to the list below (not found on TCCD) is the brand new “Year Ahead” Land Cruiser with pricing and production data from Turning Wheels feature article by Fred Fox, December 2003.  Fox indicates that 407 Dictator Land Cruisers were made, none have survived.