USA vs Italy — 1953 vs 1959
| Hawk Gran Turismo | 250 GT SWB Berlinetta | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 240 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 202 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 2,953 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 162 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 14.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,315 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,023 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 5,024 mm | 4,200 mm |
| Units Produced | 14,300 | 176 |
| Original MSRP | — | $13,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $12,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
The 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo counters with 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.
When USA engineering meets Italy craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo and 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 240 hp, a 40-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 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta relies on a V12 SOHC with 2,953 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 9.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 176 units built, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta is considerably scarcer than the Studebaker Hawk's 14,300 examples. On the collector market, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta commands a significant premium over the 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1959 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.