Stude Stroker Smeding V8 Auto Classic Vintage Collector Custom Rare Black Red

1960 Studebaker Hawk Restomod Description

This 1960 Studebaker Hawk takes a rare and classic coupe look and then adds the best of everything. So not only do you have a distinct look, but also a custom leather A/C interior, an upgraded suspension, overdrive transmission, and a performance-built 383 stroker V8.

A coupe like this is a true status symbol. Raymond Loewy's studio really knew how to inject a high-class look at Studebaker. The long hood, Mercedes-inspired grille, and wraparound rear window give this an instant sophistication. Plus, the tailfins with Hawk script make this one feel like a bird in flight. It's all wrapped in a glossy single-stage black for a vintage elegance. But this one is more than just a classic. There's also a modern sporty flair with the clear headlights, large exhaust tips, and a set of Intro alloy wheels with a nice 17/18 inch front/rear stance. The Hawk has an instant attraction today, but back in 1960, it was a little bit different. You could have an Impala hardtop for around the same price, and most people chose that instead. The result is only around 4,500 examples were produced this year, and so 60 years later, you really have exceptional rarity to go with the beauty of this one.

While the exterior is subtly sporty, the interior truly explicit in this announcement. After all, it's nothing but bright red and brighter machine-turned trim. It's a full custom setup done in a supple leather. Everyone gets custom bucket seats with a console in-between, including the rear. Red carpeting, headliner, and door panels look awesome, especially with some nicely textured ostrich inserts. In fact, this whole custom interior is a detail-oriented package. That's why you get nice pieces like the Studebaker Hawk logo in-between the rear seats and on the seatbelts. There are nice comfortable features, like an Alpine AM/FM/CD stereo w/aux input, power windows, and cold-blowing R134a air conditioning. The custom red and chrome steering wheel is mounted on a tilt column, and it gives you a clear view to the full Classic Instruments gauge package.

Studebaker's V8 was potent enough for 1960, but today there's something far wickeder in the engine bay. But you may have to explain that to them, because the 383 cubic-inch stroker Chevy V8 has been given custom Hawk valve covers (it truly is a detailed build!) This tidy setup also has plenty of power. It's a Smeding Performance build with a Holley four-barrel carburetor, Edelbrock intake, serpentine belts, and shorty headers that feed a throaty Flowmaster dual exhaust system. The enhanced V8 enhances the driving experience out on the road to give you plenty of cruising power and muscle car prowess. Plus, the 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission has a shift kit to give you a better powerband as well as a useful overdrive. This flexibility is also seen in the undercarriage where you have nice upgrades like a Mustang II tubular style setup in front, and the rear has a limited-slip Ford 9-inch unit. Power steering, four-wheel power disc brakes, and grippy ZR-rated tires all make for a classic you can really enjoy near or far.

This is a full custom completed in 2005, and we have the receipts to prove the thousands $$$$ that went into making it. So if you're looking for rarity, luxury, power, and distinction - all in one place - you need to call today!