USA vs Germany — 1953 vs 1957
| Hawk Gran Turismo | 507 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 240 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 173 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 11.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,932 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,023 mm | 2,480 mm |
| Length | 5,024 mm | 4,385 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 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo offers more power, quicker acceleration, better value, while the 1957 BMW 507 counters with higher top speed, greater rarity, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
When USA engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo and 1957 BMW 507 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. 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. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo edges ahead at 9.5 seconds versus 11.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1957 BMW 507 is considerably scarcer than the Studebaker Hawk's 14,300 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 BMW 507 commands a significant premium over the 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 BMW 507 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.