210 bhp, 289 cu. in. OHV “Thunderbolt” V-8 engine, four-speed automatic transmission, independent front suspension, live rear axle with sway bar, and front disc and rear drum brakes. Wheelbase: 120.5 in.

• Fully restored in 2000 by Westmoreland Studebaker in Blairsville, Pennsylvania

• Epitome of Studebaker styling with legendary performance and drivability

Studebaker’s stylish 1953 Commander Starliner Coupe was a tough act to follow. The car was re-christened the Hawk for 1956 and received the obligatory fins and a forward-thrusting grille that some suggested was influenced by Mercedes-Benz, for which Studebaker was the U.S. distributor. In 1961, after the fin craze lost its appeal, Studebaker President Sherwood Egbert hired famous designer Brooks Stevens to update the original 1953 design, yet again. Despite the fact that it was merely an inexpensive facelift, the car appeared completely new for 1962. Stevens gave the car a Thunderbird-style roof and finless rear deck, and it arguably became one of the most attractive Studebakers ever built. The understated elegance of the squared-off roofline provided greatly increased interior roominess, too. It received wide acclaim from automotive journalists who praised the Hawk when tested, referring to it as “a powerful, competent road machine offering European standards of roadholding with American power and quality.”

Production lasted for just three years, after which the South Bend plant was closed on December 20, 1963 after 111 years of continuous carriage and automobile production. Hawk production for 1963 totaled just 4,634 units. The base price before options was $3,095. Painted Ermine White with a contrasting red vinyl bucket seat interior, this GT Hawk was fully-restored by Westmoreland Studebaker, of Blairsville, Pennsylvania, and was completed in 2000. Receipts detailing all work completed are available for review and substantiate the quality of work displayed.