Image of 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk, sourced from en.wikipedia.org , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk emerges as a shining testament to the audacity and innovation of its era. Born from the ambitious Studebaker-Packard Corporation, this vehicle is a snapshot of American automotive history, encapsulating the optimism and design bravado of the late 1950s. With its distinctive styling and impressive performance, the Golden Hawk carved out a niche that still resonates with enthusiasts today. A standout fact about this car is its supercharged engine, a feature that was quite ahead of its time and contributed to its legendary status among classic car aficionados.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the Golden Hawk is a feast for the eyes, with its low-slung profile, dramatic tail fins, and a bold front grille that commands attention. The hawk-inspired hood ornament presides over a long, sleek hood, leading back to a cabin that's snug yet replete with period luxury. Inside, one would find a tasteful blend of materials, from chrome accents to richly upholstered seats. Technologically, it boasted advancements like the aforementioned supercharger and a Flightomatic automatic transmission. Color options ranged from understated to vibrant, with Arctic White and Tiara Gold among the popular choices. The hardtop coupe was the iconic body style that left an indelible mark on automotive design.

Historical Significance

The Golden Hawk's impact on automotive design was profound; it merged performance with luxury in a package that was accessible to many. It stood apart from contemporaries with its supercharged powerplant and unique styling cues. The car's influence can be seen in later models across various manufacturers who aimed to capture similar grandeur and performance in their offerings.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood lay a 289 cubic inch V8 engine paired with a McCulloch supercharger, propelling the Golden Hawk from 0-60 mph in just 7.8 seconds—a remarkable feat for its time. With a top speed approaching 125 mph, it was among the fastest production cars of its day. On the road, it handled with poise, though it was known for being nose-heavy due to the weight of its powerful engine. Drivers reported an exhilarating experience behind the wheel, with the whine of the supercharger complementing the throaty roar of the V8.

Ownership Experience

The Golden Hawk transitioned smoothly between roles as a daily driver and show car, though some were even used in racing due to their robust performance capabilities. Maintenance could be challenging due to the complexity of the supercharger system and scarcity of parts over time. However, for those dedicated enough to own one, it remained a reliable classic when properly cared for.

Fun Facts

A curious piece of trivia is that despite its prestige now, only 4,356 units were produced in 1957. Celebrity ownerships have included notable personalities which only add to its mystique. While it set no official speed records, it was one of the fastest cars available at that time. Criticisms often focused on its handling quirks and fuel consumption but did little to diminish its desirability.

Collector's Information

In today's market, a well-maintained 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk can fetch anywhere between $60,000 to $100,000 or more depending on condition and originality. Its rarity makes it a prized possession for collectors; however exact production numbers are debated but hover around just over 4,000 units made. As interest in mid-century American cars continues to grow, values for models like the Golden Hawk have steadily appreciated over time.

Conclusion

The 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk remains an emblematic figure in classic automotive circles—a testament to innovation and style during an era where cars were more than just transportation; they were statements. Its legacy endures as both a collector's dream and an enduring symbol of America's golden age of automobiles.

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each-AP 22Accelerator Pedal Pad, 2-3/8" X 9", Each

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 45Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 2-3/4" wide X 4-1/8" long, with 1-5/8" long inner slot. Pair

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Power Steering Bushing. 1-9/16" O.D., 7/16" I.D. Pair-BN 107Power Steering Bushing. 1-9/16" O.D., 7/16" I.D. Pair

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 5/8" high-BN 13Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 5/8" high., with 3/8" I.D. Each

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1-1/16" bottom O.D-BN 14Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1-1/16" bottom O.D. X 1-1/2" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 16Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/8" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D-BN 20Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D. X 1-5/8" high, with 9/16" I.D. Each

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Gas Filler Grommet. Perfect reproduction. Top 2-1/16" I.D-GF 45Gas Filler Grommet. Perfect reproduction. Top 2-1/16" I.D., 3-7/16" O.D. Each

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Headlight Ring Seal. 8-5/8" O.D., 7-7/8" I.D. Pair-HR 16Headlight Ring Seal. 8-5/8" O.D., 7-7/8" I.D. Pair

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each-MP 979Door Lock Pad. 1-1/8" O.D. Each

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Rubber Seal Behind Fender on Headlights-MP 979-CRubber Seal Behind Fender on Headlights. 8-7/8" wide X 10" long. Pair

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Steering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each-SC 24-ASteering Column Grommet. For 3-speed models. Each

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Headlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D-SM 13-AHeadlight & Tail-Light Wire Grommet. 3/8" I.D., 7/8" O.D. Each

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Flexible window channel-WC 10-96Flexible window channel. Rubber covered with mohair lining and stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk Front Vent Window Seals-WR 9404Front Vent Window Seals. Will not fit Hardtops, only Pillar Models. Each piece 29" long. Pair