A MATTER OF ERGONOMICS

Dear Editor, I’ve got another curly one for you — ergonomic information on reclined racing car / sports car driving positions? Maybe someone out there knows where some info can be found on the subject? The library and internet have come up with nothing, so I’m scratching my head. Can anyone point me in the right direction to get any information? My next awkward question is with regard to late 1930s Studebakers. I have a photocopy of a photo of a ’37 pickup — very nice styling/design when most others were all boxy. Does anyone out there know who the designer was, as this styling was way ahead of its time? As I’m interested in design, I’ve been sussing out art-deco automobiles: Bugatti, Talbot-Lago, and a few others from the 1930s. Joseph Figoni, who designed many, was pretty outstanding, but trying to find any info is pretty damn impossible. I’d like to chase Studebaker design on the other side of the Atlantic, if possible. Any help about where to go would be appreciated. PS: I have memories of another ute, a rather lovely Plymouth — don’t know the year. We wrecked it and cut up the chassis for a paddock go-kart years ago. Now that I’m interested in this type of stuff, I feel pangs of guilt. Grant Wills Hey Grant, You’re right about a few curly ones! From what we can tell, the Studebaker designer was Helen Dryden, under the supervision of Raymond Loewy. Studebaker even proclaimed the cars to be designed by Dryden in their advertising at the time. Interestingly, she was also/ subsequently the highest paid female artist in the States at the time. Apparently, despite having a good income at one stage, she ended her days with nothing, and as a relative unknown. If you’re interested in looking into Studebaker design, my guess would be that researching Dryden and Loewy would be a good place to start. Octane Books (09 524 0138) may also have some books dedicated to the subject — and also on the subject of the laid-back seating positions. Give Ian there a call, and let him know what you’re looking for. All the best with the hunt for info, Todd