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From
Stylization to Perfection of Automotive Technology (1930s)
The
vitality of those who recovered from the Great Depression in 1929
continued into the coming decade of the 1930s. As if to dispel the
memory of the dark days, it was in this decade that the U.S. aimed
for the future with a trend of the streamlined look. Car design played
an integral role, and it was the U.S. that took the lead as the trend-setter
in design and technology. The vision was toward a more luxurious and
fashionable image. The impact of this developing style could be felt
as far away as Japan, as evidenced in Toyoda's Model AA.
Chevrolet
Master Series DA (1934, U.S.)
 With
the 1934 Chevrolet, there was the addition of a V-type radiator grille
and generous chrome plating to the already streamlined body styling.
The Toyoda Model AA passenger car was built with reference to the
Chevrolet and had parts compatibility with it. This was possible because
the Chevrolets were manufactured at GM's Osaka Plant and the parts
were easily accessible.
"80mph from 80 horsepower" was claimed for this car. It
featured an increase of 15hp over Chevrolet's previous model, and
independent front suspension was applied. For a more streamlined look,
the series DA had a V-shaped radiator grill, large and rounded fenders
and a tilted windshield.
Lincoln
Zephyr Series HB (1937, U.S.)
 In
the 1930s, almost all products, from automobiles to architectural
structures and electrical appliances, acquired the streamlined shape.
The Lincoln Zephyr that appeared in 1935 was totally streamlined and
quickly became popular because of its superb styling. In particular,
the flawless balance between the front and rear of the body created
by the monocoque structure significantly influenced other makers.
A luxury car reshaped according to aerodynamic theories of the 1930s,
the Lincoln Zephyr's fenders, tail end, and even its headlights echoed
a teardrop motif. In addition, the windshield was more sharply tilted,
the radiator led into the body in one smooth curve, and the headlight
housings were integrated with the front fenders. The Zephyr was the
masterpiece of streamlined design and retained the proven chassis
components.
Volkswagen
38 Prototype "Replica" (1938, Germany)
 The
Volkswagen was designed by Ferdinand Porsche, based on the concept
of a "people's car." This 38 Prototype had an engine with
a total displacement of 996cc. It was an air-cooled, horizontal-opposed
engine. Production of the VW was discontinued during the war years
but was resumed in earnest in the early post-war period. It became
known and loved by people all over the world as the "Beetle."
The Volkswagen began as Ferdinand Porsche's concept of an ideal car
for the masses - a small and economical vehicle, of course, but one
that also incorporated the latest technology. Not being constrained
to use existing equipment, a horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine
was designed for the power plant. When mounted in the rear and driving
the rear wheels, this engine, with its low height, permitted the Volkswagen
to have a streamlined, fastback shape. |Back| |
