USA vs USA — 1965 vs 1962
| Riviera Gran Sport 425 | Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 465 lb-ft | 335 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,965 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.2 sec | 7.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.3 sec | 16.1 sec |
| Weight | 4,500 lbs | 3,400 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,073 mm | 3,048 mm |
| Length | 5,410 mm | 5,156 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,961 | 592 |
| Original MSRP | $4,424 | $3,095 |
| Value (Excellent) | $95,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport 425 offers more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged counters with lighter weight, greater rarity. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
The 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport 425 and 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged stand as two of the most notable Personal Luxury cars from Muscle era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport 425 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 360 hp compared to 240 hp, a 120-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Buick Riviera uses a V8 OHV (Buick 425 Nailhead) displacing 6,965 cc, while the Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk relies on a V8 OHV with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport 425 edges ahead at 7.2 seconds versus 7.8 seconds. The Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1100 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 592 units built, the 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged is considerably scarcer than the Buick Riviera's 3,961 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.