USA vs USA — 1963 vs 1956
| Avanti R2 Supercharged | Golden Hawk Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 289 hp | 275 hp |
| Torque | 335 lb-ft | 330 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.3 sec | 8.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 160 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.3 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,794 mm | 3,048 mm |
| Length | 4,902 mm | 5,156 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,643 | 4,356 |
| Original MSRP | — | $3,095 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged answers with stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Studebaker has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged with the 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged producing 289 hp and the 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged delivering 275 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Avanti uses a V8 OHV 16V Supercharged 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 1963 Studebaker Avanti R2 Supercharged edges ahead at 7.3 seconds versus 8.0 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.