Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged
Brooks Stevens transformed the aging Hawk platform into a European-style gran turismo with clean lines and luxurious interior. The optional R2 Paxton supercharged 289 produced 240 HP, giving the lightweight Hawk genuine sports car performance. The GT Hawk combined Mercedes-Benz styling elegance with American V8 power in a unique package that competed with Thunderbird and Riviera at a lower price.
Verify R2 installation with original documentation - many naturally aspirated cars have been modified. Check supercharger drive system carefully. GT Hawk-specific trim pieces are scarce. Join Studebaker Drivers Club for parts sources.
The GT Hawk was Studebaker's attempt to compete in the personal luxury market. The R2 supercharger option cost $372 and only 592 were built across all 1962 Studebaker models. Most went into Larks, making R2 GT Hawks extraordinarily rare with likely fewer than 100 examples.