Studebaker’s 1956 Golden Hawk featured subtle fiberglass tailfins, grafted to the steel "Loewy Coupe.” The Golden Hawk was advertised as a “family sports car,” and that was not far off; with more horsepower per pound than any other American production automobile, it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in only 8.7 seconds. In total, just 4,071 examples of the Golden Hawk were produced.

Evidently, the previous owner of this striking and completely customized Golden Hawk felt that the model could use more horsepower—a lot more horsepower. Documentation from the previous owner notes that most the unique specifications were outfitted by Lil Joe’s Rod Shop of Margate, Florida. This custom Golden Hawk was subsequently acquired by the consignor in 2008 and has lived a carefully tended life within their private collection of American marques.

Finished in Black Pearl over a lipstick red interior, this custom Golden Hawk is powered by a chrome-dressed 350 cubic-inch V-8 engine. In addition to its polished Edelbrock aluminium intake manifold, custom-fabricated stainless steel exhaust system, and billet drive pulleys, this intimidating powerplant also features upgraded modern fuel lines, electronic ignition, twin electric fan cooling, and enlarged multi-core radiator. Power is routed to the rear wheels via a column-operated 700 R-4 automatic transmission and Ford 8.8 rear axle with 3.73 gearing. Additional amenities which improve this Golden Hawk’s roadgoing dynamics include power disc brakes and steering, air conditioning, modern suspension, and 17-inch polished aluminum wheels.

The lipstick red leather interior was provided by the Studebaker specialists at Phantom Auto Works (now Southeast Studebaker) of Knoxville, Tennessee. This factory-style upholstery is surrounded by a tremendous volume of shiny trim and details including billet pedals. The engine-turned dash plate is fronted by a complete suite of modern Stewart Warner gauges and leather-wrapped steering wheel.

With very few Golden Hawks available today, this menacing and completely customized example is perhaps among the wildest creations to bear the Studebaker nameplate. This tasteful and professionally built resto rod is an ideal offering for the hot rod enthusiast looking for a unique, powerful ride with many modern amenities that is unlikely to be replicated at any concours or cruise.