Restored at a cost of more than $80,000
1956 Studebaker Sky Hawk
Chassis no. 7810278
289ci OHV V8 engine
Single Carburetor
210bhp at 4,500rpm
Two-speed Flight-o-Matic automatic
transmission
Independent front suspension - Live Rear Axle
Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes
*Offered from a Private Collection
*Comprehensive restoration
*Matching numbers
*Striking color combination
*Iconic Design
The Sky Hawk
A one year model only, the Studebaker Sky Hawk heralded from the brief era of the merged Packard and Studebaker corporations and was one of four two door coupes offered, constituting a range on a singular theme: that of the dramatic coupe penned by the team at the Raymond Loewy Studio headed by Robert Bourke.
At the base of the range was the six-cylinder Flight Hawk, while the Power Hawk, Sky Hawk and Golden Hawk all were powered by V8s of increasing performance, 259, 289 and 352 cubic inch motors respectively. Although the Golden Hawk may have drawn press for its performance, and some argue may have been the first muscle car based on its power to weight stats, Sky Hawks tended to be the better all round for handling though the additional weight of the 352 proved to make the series too nose heavy.
What is undeniable is their individual and distinguished looks, but unfortunately their high price tag of $2,477 lead to modest production of a little over 3,000 units, or less than 5% of Studebaker production that year.
The Motorcar Offered
This striking Studebaker Sky Hawk was acquired by the current owners January 2005. The car was subsequently sent to WCD Garage in Northboro, Massachusetts where a thorough restoration was carried out, at a cost of more than $80,000. In completing this work the car's two tone black over primrose color scheme was retained and the interior matched in vinyl white/primrose.
Today, a few summers later, the car has gained some light age, most notably the hard headlining panels have started to detach from their mounts, but otherwise presents extremely finely.
With their individual and intricate design features, these Studebakers will always draw a crowd, this in its period guise and fabulous condition must be one of the finest around.
Saleroom notices
- Please note that this lot is no longer in the sale.
