USA vs Germany — 1953 vs 1957
| Hawk Golden Hawk | 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 275 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 320 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 2,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,131 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 5,156 mm | 4,570 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,071 | 1,858 |
| Original MSRP | — | $10,950 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $2,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1953 Studebaker Hawk Golden Hawk counters with more power, 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.
Putting the 1953 Studebaker Hawk Golden Hawk against the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Germany. The 1953 Studebaker Hawk Golden Hawk holds a clear advantage in raw power with 275 hp compared to 215 hp, a 60-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Hawk uses a V8 OHV 16V Supercharged displacing 4,736 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 8.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) commands a significant premium over the 1953 Studebaker Hawk Golden Hawk, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W198 II) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.