USA vs Germany — 1953 vs 1956
| Hawk Gran Turismo | 300 SL Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 240 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 2,996 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 8.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,130 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,023 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 5,024 mm | 4,520 mm |
| Units Produced | 14,300 | 1,858 |
| Original MSRP | — | $10,970 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $2,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
The 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster 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 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster 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 215 hp, a 25-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 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 2,996 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster edges ahead at 8.8 seconds versus 9.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,858 units built, the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster is considerably scarcer than the Studebaker Hawk's 14,300 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1953 Studebaker Hawk Gran Turismo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.