USA vs Germany — 1953 vs 1956
| Hawk Gran Turismo | 507 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 240 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,023 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 5,024 mm | 4,380 mm |
| Units Produced | 14,300 | 252 |
| Original MSRP | — | $9,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 1956 BMW 507 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo 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 Gran Turismo against the 1956 BMW 507 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 Gran Turismo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 240 hp compared to 150 hp, a 90-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Hawk uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 4,736 cc, while the BMW 507 relies on a V8 OHV with 3,168 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 BMW 507 edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 9.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 is considerably scarcer than the Studebaker Hawk's 14,300 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 commands a significant premium over the 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 BMW 507 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.