1964 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk GT

The Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk (or GT Hawk) was a grand touring coupe sold by Studebaker motors between 1962 and 1964. The top of the Studebaker line, it was the final development of the Hawk series that began with the Golden Hawk in 1956.

A number of possible taillight variations were tried with the 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk, all with the requirement that they bolt on to the existing bodywork.

Many areas of the vehicles were designed to be inexpensive to produce. The rear window was flat and recessed; the underpinnings and chassis of the car were nearly identical to prior Hawks. The engine bay could accept a variety of Studebaker engines that could be mated to a three-speed manual, four-speed, or Flight-O-Matic automatic gearbox. The engines ranged from a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produced just over 210 horsepower to a supercharged 5-liter engine that produced over 330 horsepower. The car’s low weight and front disc brakes made it a solid performance machine.

One positive attribute of the GT Hawk is its size; compared to a Riviera or Toronado, it’s a little shorter and a lot narrower, which is a benefit when space is at a premium.  It really is shocking how effectively updated the old 1953 Studebaker, and how simply was managed it using a big, protruding Mercedes-style grille.

The 1964 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk GT was an one of the most successful automobile recyclings. For the this model year, the financially troubled manufacturer could afford to add only a sporty radiator grille and finned rear fenders. Even so, rechristening the new model as the Hawk created an interesting market niche.