Vehicle Description
Studebaker isn't quite mainstream, but there are a lot of guys who
really dig their performance/luxury coupes like this 1962
Studebaker Gran Turismo resto-mod. Dramatic styling, strong
performance from a 350 cubic inch V8, and all the luxury features
you'd expect, including factory A/C, make this a wonderful
alternative to the usual '60s hardware.
This particular GT has a cool look that's not highly modified but
definitely updated. Still looking good enough for casual shows and
driving events, and among all those Brand X cars, it's definitely
going to stand out. The bright green metallic paint is highlighted
by the white top and hood insert, giving it a long, low look that
really shows of the Euro-inspired design. It's a modern urethane
finish that looks right on the vintage sheetmetal, not too shiny
and a bright color that gets attention, which always helps an old
car's image. There's the slightest hint of a hood scoop up front
and the final vestiges of tail fins out back, so the car is a
perfect representative of the early '60s and it's in the details
where this car really shines. Check out the contrasting insert in
the deck lid, the chrome trim running along the tops of the
fenders, and the center-mounted emblem on the trunk, all things
that make this car stand out in a crowd. We're guessing that much
of the chrome and stainless was restored when the car was painted
and it shines up nicely with a soft patina that works well with the
overall look.
The clean interior has been updated to match the performance living
underneath. The front seats are not quite buckets but not a bench,
either, and the light green cloth upholstery is beautifully
detailed with proper piping and pleats that are period-perfect.
Nice black carpets and beautiful door panels with cool
engine-turned trim make it inviting and the wrap-around instrument
panel puts the focus on the driver. A full array of Dolphin gauges
also have an old school look and you'll note that it features
accessory under-dash A/C that still blows ice cold. The black
finish on the dash is restrained and elegant, with some stitching
that gives it a European look that works well with the car's
overall demeanor. The original AM radio is still in the center of
the dash, but if this were our car to keep, we'd update that part
next to make this the ultimate road trip car. The back seat looks
almost completely unused and the large trunk offers green carpet
and a matching full-sized spare tire assembly.
The 350 cubic inch V8 has no relation to the original Studebaker
powerplant, but it has the same smooth power and torque that makes
the Studebaker fun to drive. Modern equipment ensures reliability
and performance and the transplant is clean enough that it almost
looks like it was born there. Modern accessories, an Edelbrock
4-barrel carburetor, new front disc brakes, Unisteer
rack-and-pinion steering, and a big aluminum radiator make it feel
far more contemporary than you'd expect. It's backed by a TH400
3-speed automatic transmission and a Nova front clip, making this a
great touring car. The dual exhaust system features mellow-sounding
mufflers and you can see how clean it is with just a glance
underneath. Weld polished aluminum wheels and staggered 215/65/15
front and 265/50/15 rear BFGoodrich radials look great and improve
handling in a noticeable way.
With just over 4000 Gran Turismos built in 1962, this is a rather
rare piece and is just right for the guy who wants a car that he
can enjoy and tinker with on the weekends. Call today!