For Sale: 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo in Morgantown, Pennsylvania

1962 Studebaker GT Hawk

Despite the European influence, the Gran Turismo Hawk drew on American influences, too; the roofline was heavily inspired by the Ford Thunderbird, with thick C-pillars. A chrome edge running from front to rear highlighted the top of the bodywork in very similar fashion to that on the contemporary Lincoln Continental. The taillights were particularly fashioned after the Lincoln's, and the trunk lid was given a faux brightwork "grille" overlay (to hide the grooves of the otherwise carryover 1956-61 lid) that resembled the Lincoln as well. Stevens's extensive yet inexpensive modifications to the body finally rid the car of the 1950s-style tailfins and bodyside trim of previous models. The rear window was nearly flat and recessed, reducing the cost of an ordinarily expensive piece of glass. Overall, the exterior look kept the smooth, aerodynamic style of previous Studebakers but moved up to date.

This rare 1962 Studebaker GT Hawk tells a remarkable story of ownership and provenance. In 1962, a Mr. Rider at the age of 22, purchased the GT Hawk from his father's dealership in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. The special order Hawk's option list is contained within the original window sticker. The MSRP of the GT lists a selling price of $3,880.43, a significant amount of money for a performance car at that time. It is currently owned by Mr. Rider's brother, who acquired the car through Mr. Rider's wish upon his passing. Since that ownership change the car has been lovingly stored among a collection of family owned English classics. Absolutely no restoration of any sort has ever been done to this classic.

Exterior
Original beige showing some patina, but overall good condition paint is seen. Chrome and brite work is nicely preserved showing some pitting, and areas of slight rust where it meets the bodywork. A few chips in the beige all around show up, but for original paint unrestored, it is very nice.

Interior
Light beige vinyl buckets with horizontal pleats, present in perfect condition. This is unusual as the 1962 introductory year used an inferior vinyl that tended to fade and wear out very quickly, so not was changed for 1963, when they changed to US Royal Naugahyde vinyl. A pristine rear bench with a large center armrest that folds up and down, is extremely comfortable. A 4-speed manual floor shifter is seen in front of the console and this is both a rare, and expensive alternative to the automatic version. The faux veneer dash houses all the necessary gauges, as well as an optional tachometer. Headliner is very nice, and top of dash shows no cracking or faults. Door panels are in excellent condition as well.

Drivetrain
289ci V8 engine and twin traction, coupled with added HD suspension option, the 4-speed manual, a 4-barrel carburetor. This Studebaker was built for speed and handling.

The car runs and drives well but is in need of some work to become a daily driver. There are some small spots of surface rust on the exterior and below the trunk mat. The interior is amazing in its condition and originality and needs nothing. All accessories are functional. A Gran Turismo that offers a unique opportunity to either freshen and drive or make an easy restoration of a well-documented and rare American classic.

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 150 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. A 450 barn find collection is currently also on display.
This vehicle is in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.