USA vs USA — 1956 vs 1957
| Golden Hawk Supercharged | Golden Hawk | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 275 hp | 275 hp |
| Torque | 330 lb-ft | 325 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 7.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.0 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,600 lbs | 3,600 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 3,048 mm |
| Length | 5,156 mm | 5,207 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,356 | 4,356 |
| Original MSRP | $3,095 | $3,182 |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged offers higher top speed, while the 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk counters with quicker acceleration. 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 Studebaker Golden Hawk lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged with the 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk reveals how Studebaker refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk Supercharged producing 275 hp and the 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk delivering 275 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Studebaker Golden Hawk uses a V8 OHV (Packard 289 Supercharged) displacing 4,736 cc, while the Studebaker Golden Hawk relies on a V8 OHV Supercharged with 4,736 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk edges ahead at 7.8 seconds versus 8.0 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.