For Sale: 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk in Morgantown, Pennsylvania

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Hardtop

In the Studebaker-Packard Hawk series, there were eight different Hawk models between 1956 and 1964. Just over 80,000 Hawks were built during its nine year run, and although never a big seller, the Hawk has become one of Studebaker's most iconic automobiles and remains tremendously popular today. The 1956 Golden Hawk was the first Studebaker automobile to feature tail fins. The '56 Golden Hawk's fins were made of fiberglass, while '57 and later Hawk fins were steel." Thx to studebakermuseum.org

For consignment, a 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk showing 95,885 miles, but the true miles are unknown. This car is believed to have been restored about 20 years ago and represents one of less than 10,000 produced, with the highest year being 1957 with 4,356 units.

Exterior
Bathed in Tiara Gold 2 stage paint, the front of the car features huge scoops over the bumpers that provide two massive tunnels for air to flow, framed in robust chrome and all of it is in excellent condition. Single headlights are adorned with torpedo-like marker lights that rise like fender ornaments while the hood itself has a power bulge that starts high then tapers down towards the cowl where louvers reside for a little extra pizazz. In profile, the roof line follows the design of the hood bulge by starting high, then leaning back down to the wraparound rear window and from there, the white seems to take that windblown energy and disperses it rearward, as if in motion. The ribbed deck lid, Arctic White fins, round tail lights, gold trim, and dual exhaust all work together to form an unmistakable and unforgettable tail. Imperfections on this example include some inclusions, chips, scratches, clear runs, blistering, edgewear, and scuffs on the bumper.

Interior
Handsome horizontal panels in black, white and foil cover the door panels with a touch of patina on each but otherwise fully intact. Fit for a king, the vinyl split bench seats are here in white vinyl with pebble print inserts and black stitching, presenting in very nice condition as are the 2+2 seats in back that share a center armrest on pedestals. A solid black steering wheel with some aftermarket wrap features a polished horn ring and Studebaker hawk on the center cap with a slim shifter mounted to the column. In front, a gauge cluster is backed by a spun aluminum dash panel and includes an AM radio with speaker and sporty, round gauges for the time, certainly an influence of European cars. A black dash pad matches the black carpet and both are in outstanding shape, with the white headliner showing a touch of patina but fully intact. A fitted black carpeted mat covers the floor of the trunk and a paint matched spare is in place.

Drivetrain
Under the hood, we find a clean "Sweepstakes" 289ci supercharged V8 rated at 275 horsepower, astounding output for 1957 when only a handful of cars broke the 200 horsepower ceiling. This engine is fueled by a 2-barrel carburetor and backed by a Flight-O-matic 3-speed automatic transmission and power is sent to the rear wheels with 3.31 gears in a Twin Traction differential.

Undercarriage
Nice clean driver quality underside with minimal surface rust and some residual oil about but solid structure all around. The dual exhaust flows Cherrybomb mufflers before heading to the back where decorative exhaust deflectors cover the straight tailpipes with chrome accents. Coil spring suspension is used up front and leaf springs out back, while power drum brakes are found at all four corners.

Drive-Ability
Unique inside and out, the cabin is a fantastic mid-century adventure and the 289 comes to life with the vigorous rumble of the Cherrybombs. Good power and fantastic visibility makes for a pleasurable ride. Of note are the clock, horn, tachometer, high beams and right turn singles, not working. In addition, we not the car pulls left on braking and the brake pedal is soft but does build pressure. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase.

While Studebaker clubs and enthusiasts enjoy a vibrant community, it's likely you'll be one of very few Studebakers at the local car show and often, the only one. The Golden Hawk combines some of the great design cues of the 50's with a narrow body line that would dominate the 60's, plus a supercharged engine that, at the time, could outperform just about anything on the road. Let this one land in your garage and you can be assured of many happy flights ahead.

Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person. There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee is not included in the advertised price. All prices are before state, city and county tax, tag, title and license fees. Out of state buyers are responsible for all state, county, city taxes and fees, as well as title/registration fees in the state that the vehicle will be registered. Classic Auto Mall is not responsible for errors and omissions. Please verify listings with dealer. Vehicles may require VIN verification and/or safety and emissions inspections to transfer ownership and register the vehicle in the declared state of residence. Please check with your local DMV office to ensure compliance with your state's titling and registration process.

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