USA vs USA — 1953 vs 1962
| Starliner Commander V8 | Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 185 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 335 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,244 cc | 4,736 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 7.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 16.1 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,400 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,023 mm | 3,048 mm |
| Length | 5,029 mm | 5,156 mm |
| Units Produced | 13,058 | 592 |
| Original MSRP | — | $3,095 |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 9/10 |
The 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1953 Studebaker Starliner Commander V8 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.
Within the Studebaker stable, the 1953 Studebaker Starliner Commander V8 and 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Studebaker badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 240 hp compared to 185 hp, a 55-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged edges ahead at 7.8 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 592 units built, the 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged is considerably scarcer than the Studebaker Starliner's 13,058 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk R2 Supercharged rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.