USA vs USA — 1962 vs 1956
| Lark Daytona Convertible | Golden Hawk Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 225 hp | 275 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 330 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 8.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,049 lbs | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,794 mm | 3,048 mm |
| Length | 4,775 mm | 5,156 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,602 | 4,356 |
| Original MSRP | $2,814 | $3,095 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
The 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Studebaker Lark Daytona Convertible counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Within the Studebaker stable, the 1962 Studebaker Lark Daytona Convertible and 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Studebaker badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 275 hp compared to 225 hp, a 50-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Lark uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,736 cc, while the Studebaker Golden Hawk relies on a V8 OHV (Packard 289 Supercharged) with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged edges ahead at 8.0 seconds versus 9.5 seconds. The Studebaker Lark carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 551 lbs lighter. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.