USA vs USA — 1953 vs 1957
| Hawk Golden Hawk | Golden Hawk | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 275 hp | 275 hp |
| Torque | 320 lb-ft | 325 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 7.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 3,048 mm |
| Length | 5,156 mm | 5,207 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,071 | 4,356 |
| Original MSRP | — | $3,182 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1953 Studebaker Hawk Golden Hawk brings higher top speed to the table, and the 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk answers with quicker acceleration, 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 1953 Studebaker Hawk Golden Hawk with the 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1953 Studebaker Hawk Golden Hawk producing 275 hp and the 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk delivering 275 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Hawk uses a V8 OHV 16V Supercharged displacing 4,736 cc, while the Studebaker Golden Hawk relies on a V8 OHV Supercharged with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk edges ahead at 7.8 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 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.